As you prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day on May 13, go beyond celebrating just moms who contribute so much of life to their families and congregations. The UMC’s Church and Society board asks you to also remember and respond to the deaths experienced by women worldwide in the face of pregnancy and childbirth.

The education and advocacy agency reports that “830 mothers die each day from pregnancy-related complications; and many of these deaths are preventable.” It is urgent that we recognize the perils that women and girls face as a result of pregnancy.  Although the number is decreasing globally, the rate is actually increasing in the U.S. and 12 other countries.

A resource packet, with a bulletin insert, fact sheet, preaching tips and more is available. For more information, contact Susan Burton. In addition, Church & Society is publishing articles about saving mothers’ lives on its website. Check for new articles every week.

Also, please read and share Bishop Peggy Johnson’s Mother’s Day letter, dated May 13, 2018, which calls on all of us to help “save mothers’ lives.”