Today, the third Sunday of October, various countries around the world celebrate Mother's Day. It is a date deeply rooted in national culture, inviting us to pause, give thanks, and honor the women who have given life, care, and unconditional love throughout generations.

But in this International Network of Catholic Women Leaders, we want to go beyond biological motherhood and also recognize a dimension that runs through all women: spiritual motherhood.

Spiritual motherhood is the capacity to welcome, to nurture, to accompany, to sustain. It is the gift of giving life in the unseen: in a word of comfort, in a look that affirms, in a presence that supports. It is the woman who guides others on their path of faith, who intercedes in prayer, who builds community from the heart. It is the mother who has not necessarily given birth, but who has given light.

In Argentina, where so many women live their faith with depth and commitment, this spiritual motherhood is manifested in parishes, schools, hospitals, homes, and also in leadership positions. These are women who, through their vocation, reflect the maternal face of God in the world.

Today we celebrate all Argentine mothers, and also all women who, from their own place, practice this spiritual motherhood that transforms lives. May this day be an opportunity to renew our recognition, gratitude, and commitment to the dignity of all women.

Thank you for being a source of life, faith, and communion.

Letter from Alejandra Segura, President of the International Network of Catholic Women Leaders, and from Sofía Bergoglio, Executive Secretary.