By Katherine Krakhmal

Lithuania  is celebrating its 1000^th official year in 2009, commemorating the first time  Lithuania was mentioned in the annals of history.  However, its cultural roots go far deeper than that.  The mother figure has always been revered in Lithuania and is central to the Lithuanian culture.

Mothers Day in Lithuania, “Motinos diena” takes place every first Sunday in May and it is a very significant holiday.  Lithuanians congratulate their mothers and grandmothers during this touching spring holiday, generally presenting them with flowers.  It is typical for children to prepare special programs with poems and songs dedicated to their mothers.    

Lithuanians primarily observe the Roman Catholic faith and many attend church services on Mother’s Day.  It is also common to visit cemeteries and lay flowers on the graves of deceased mothers and grandmothers.  The rest of the day is spent with family, honoring all the mothers.

Lithuania places a great significance on culture, and throughout the country there are many events dedicated to Mother’s Day, which include concerts, art exhibits and poetry readings.

The President of Lithuania usually congratulates all the mothers on this holiday and presents medals to those mothers who have born seven or more children.

Lithuanians believe that a mother’s love, self-sacrifice and kindness are the most powerful forces in the world.

“Laimingos motinos diena!”