A Niece's inquiry on Mother's Day History

When and where did Mother's Day started? How and who is the person who started it? What color is associated in celebrating Mother's Day? These are just some of the questions others may ask or our kids may ask. So, if someone asks you the above-mentioned questions, at least you know what to say.

Madonna and Child

I am not so familiar with the history of Mother's Day celebration but I still remember that it originated in the US. I have to do some digging about its history because my six-year old niece suddenly asked me a few hours ago while we're having our snack, where and when did Mother's Day celebration started? I immediately answered her that it started in America in the early 1900's. Then, to my surprised, she threw another question; this time she's asking who started it. Well, I told her honestly that I had already forgotten the name of this great mother who initiated Mother's Day celebration.

But I made a promise to her that I will find out who this person is, and here's what I've found.

Anna M.Jarvis

Mother's Day is a day set apart to pay tribute to mothers. The idea of honoring motherhood is not of certain origin. It dates far back to the mother-worship practiced in ancient Greece. Anna M. Jarvis, of Philadelphia, is credited with bringing about the observance of Mother's day in the United States. In 1907, she suggested that a special service for mothers be held in a Philadelphia church. Through her enthusiastic campaigning the idea spread to other churches and then to the public in general. Jarvis suggested the second Sunday of May for the observance, and also the wearing of carnation that day

In 1914, President Wilson issued a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May as the first national Mother's Day. The wearing of a colored carnation on Mother's Day indicates that one's mother is living; a white carnation indicates that she is not.

Happy Mother's Day to everybody!