FROM MESSAGE FOR MOTHER’S DAY - 10 MAY 2026

- HIS EMINENCE FRANK CARDINAL LEO -

     … We live in a pluralistic, multicultural and complex society where the Christian faith can no longer be assumed or simply inherited from the surrounding culture, where Christian ideals and truths are presented as one among many. In this setting the formation of Christian identity is of paramount importance (Rom. 12:2; Familiaris Consortio, 17). Mothers play a crucial role in our society and our Church. Religiously and spiritually, they contribute so very much to shape our Christian identity (cf. 2 Tim 1:5).

     The reality of who we are in Christ is multi-faceted, and at face value many mothers may feel helpless when faced with the onslaught of never-ending influences upon their children. To those mothers I want you to know and remember that long before your child encounters secular social media, harmful trends or ideologies, your child experiences your love, trust, forgiveness, and belonging within your family (Amoris Laetitia, 174).

     These early experiences shape the heart and imagination in ways that make faith intelligible later in life. When a child learns what love is through the patience of a mother, the words of the Scripture about God’s love begin to make sense (1 Jn 4:7-11). When a child experiences mercy and reconciliation at home, the message of Christ’s forgiveness is no longer abstract (Is 66:13).

     While the concept of the domestic church expresses a profound truth – it is the place where the faith is first shaped, practiced, and transmitted – many forget that these experiences are formative of identity (LG, 11; CCC 1655-1658). Christian identity is the framework through which a young person begins to interpret the world in the light of faith (Christifideles Laici, 8,28).

… In a secular culture where identity is frequently presented as something fluid or self-created, children are encouraged to define themselves according to personal preference, achievement, or social recognition. Yet the Christian vision of identity is very different, it is far more profound and holistic (Amoris Laetitia, 56). At the heart of the Gospel lies the conviction that each person is first and foremost a beloved child of God (Augustine, Confessions I,1). Our identity is not invented; it is received as a gift (CCC 1700).  

~ For the full message visit www.archtoronto.org for this and other messages to the faithful.