I often reflect on how Culture echoes a particular setting and effects the words and actions of the people who are in that environment. The question is does the Culture implement a vision of short-term fixes rather than decisions that are viewed as long-term sustainability?

In John 20:24-29, Thomas who was not with the disciples when Jesus appeared after his resurrection did not believe Jesus had risen from the dead unless he was able to see him for himself. I would argue that central to Jesus’ relationship with disciples was trust. Jesus believed that the disciples would understand that his mission was inclusive and an opportunity for everyone to embrace and live the Gospel Teachings. Thus, why did Thomas demand to see Jesus before he would believe?

I contend it is like when a sporting team is facing adversity due to through a string of poor losses, or the unavailability of key personnel either, through players wanting to leave the club as well as injury. Accordingly, the Culture is threatened as there is division as to whether the direction of the club is the way forward. Therefore, how do we overcome these challenges to our Culture amidst many opposing voices when doubt creeps in.

I believe Jesus provides the best model to sustaining a Culture where his vision for his mission can be successfully sustained. Jesus built pillars which laid a solid foundation to maintaining his mission. They were through his personal witness which extolled the values of compassion and empathy for others demonstrated by his miracles and healings. Additionally, Jesus’s Gospel teachings that challenged our relationships with others and our environment as well as how we could express God’s love through our words and actions. Moreover, these teachings offered hope and an end goal with the promise of eternal life. Consequently, these pillars exhibited, that Jesus could entrust his disciples to build a Church of believers all over the world today who have the faith to carry on his mission. As Jesus said to Thomas, “Stop doubting and believe.” John 20:27. Many believers have taken up this call since Jesus started his mission over 2000 years ago all we are asked is to believe.

On Sunday we celebrated Mother’s Day, here are some of Pope Francis’s thoughts on Mothers. “So, Let’s remember with appreciation all mothers, even our mothers in heaven particularly throughout the world at this time of the [coronavirus] pandemic.”

“To be a mother is a great treasure through their sacrifices, mothers assist in helping society to overcome its self-centered tendencies, as well as its lack of openness, generosity and concern for others.”

“Mothers, are often taken advantage of because of their availability. Not even the Christian community values them properly, despite the eminent example of the Mother of Jesus.”

“All of us give credit to our mothers for life and many other things, but not always are they listened to or helped in everyday life. In this sense motherhood is more than childbearing; it is a life choice entailing sacrifice, respect for life, and commitment to passing on those human and religious values which are essential for a healthy society.”

This maternal martyrdom, consists of a mother’s ability to offer herself in silence, prayer and total surrender, “without any fanfare,” to her motherly duties. A mother’s sensitivity “to all that threatens human life and welfare is a source of enrichment for society and the Church,” observing how it is common in moments of difficulty to encounter the tenderness, dedication and moral strength of our mothers.

“Mothers, often give the first roots of the faith, the ones that permeate deepest; without them not only would the faithful be lost, but also a good part of the deepest fire of our faith,”

We need to thank all mothers for what they are and for all that they give to the Church and to our world.”

Pope Francis concluded his midday address by recalling that Mother’s Day is celebrated in many countries today. “I wish to remember with gratitude and affection all mothers, and entrust them to the protection of Mary, our mother in heaven.” He remembered too “the mothers who have gone to the other life and accompany us from heaven.” Then addressing his global audience, Francis asked people to spend a moment in silence and “let each of us remember our own mother.”

A photo of my mum  below.