I have just read the article by Frans H. Said published on 3rd May. In it he mentions that 50 years ago, in 1961, I had brought to his attention the celebration of Mother's Day. He then broadcast, with my cooperation, the celebration of this day, which in Italy has been celebrated since 195, on a children's programme. I thank my friend Frans, as this is hardly ever mentioned in the media today.
However, I wish to describe the way this started. In my book Sinjali Maltin ta Zmienna, published by Klubb Kotba Maltin, I speak about the time when I was studying Rome and was impressed by this Giornata della Mamma celebration. In the late fifties, I introduced the day on a women's programme on Rediffusion with the late, popular Carmen Carbonaro. It was only after the launch of the Cana Movement by Archbishop Gonzi at the Ballroom of the Hotel Phoenicia on 6 January 1956 that Mother's Day started being celebrated .We had a great response and the Day was well received by business concerns. We also used to organise, as a Movement, spiritual functions and broadcasts, mainly for women and children, with Frans Said and Salvinu Tellus.
Some years later, Movement introduced Father's Day with similar success.
Today, Mother's Day and Father's Day have become part of the Maltese calendar and I am proud that today both Church and civil organisations are involved.
However, one of my long-cherished dreams has been to erect a statue to Motherhood, which I have seen in some countries and we have also one here in Milan. An honour to all mothers for begetting life with love, sacrifice and dedication. Mothers who have also given their lives for their children and who have wept unceasingly at the death of their loved ones, especially those who were victims of war and violence.
I do not know what the public thinks, but it is time that this idea is discussed in the media and a decision taken also by the government as to its feasibility. I really do wish to see such a monument in memory and gratitude to all Mamas.
Mgr Charles G. Vella
Founder of the Cana Movement
Milan