The Cardinal plans to offer a homily on the beauty and dignity of motherhood and the sanctity of human life, and will subsequently bless all expectant mothers and their unborn children. Each expectant mother in attendance will receive a white silk rose and a medal of St. Gerard Majella, honored by Catholics as the patron saint of pregnant women.

“By honoring expectant mothers, we pay tribute to motherhood in all its stages, and show that every human life is precious from the moment of conception,” said Mary-Louise Kurey, Director of the Respect Life Office of the Archdiocese of Chicago. “This special occasion also offers women who await the birth of their children an opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day along with mothers of children already born.”