Looking over my archives this morning, I can’t believe I’ve never posted on this question before, at least in the “Armchair Liturgist” tradition. So, my friends, take the purple chair and rule benevolently and theologically on the observance of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day at Sunday Mass. You have so many options.
– Special Music, like the Ave Maria or “Faith of Our Fathers” or something else?
– A mention in the prayers of the faithful, or a full-blown blessing after Communion?
– Preach on it?
– Fathers and mothers only in liturgical ministry?
You can tell us what you would do, were you the Supreme Dictator of Liturgy in your parish. You can also tell us what you’ve experienced on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, and if these practices match with your idea of good liturgy.
Catholic Sensibility 
Prayers of the faithful, and, if relevant, a topic in the sermon. I always found the “special blessings” odd and disruptive. Perhaps the priest could say “fathers/mothers and their families are invited to remain after Mass for a blessing”. It tends to make those away from a parent, with a deceased parent, or in a less than good relationship with a parent feel needlessly uncomfortable. And applause? “Gosh mom, I appreciate what you did for me so much that I’m going to slap my hands together about 15 times!” How shallow.
The worst practice I’ve seen was a visiting priest whose “blessing of the mothers” (including the Hitler-salute-blessing) sounded like commentary on dating. This rubbed against my opinion of good liturgy in so many ways.
PoF, special blessing after communion with fathers kneeling while others stand with hands on or outstretched over the fathers present…this is usually followed by a brief round of applause. (sorry to be so shallow Gavin)
On Mother’s day and Father’s day we give 10% of collection given to CRS as a gift from the parish to the mothers/fathers on their special day. Our 10% goes to CRS.org for women and children on Mother’s Day and for children on Father’s day.
Peace to all
PadreVic