Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller congratulates Dicylin Simpson, who was honoured along with 12 others, during a Mother's Day service under the banner, 'Thank God for Mama'. The service was held at the Portmore Evangelistic Centre, yesterday. -Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

Dionne Rose, Staff Reporter

She is kind, caring, compassionate and loyal; a biological mother of four and an adoptive mother of three.

Meet Esmin Jones, the 'Mother of the Year' at Portmore Evangelistic Centre in St. Catherine.

The accolades were showered on Jones during yesterday's special Mother's Day service at the church.

Twelve other moms were also recognised for their virtues over the years.

But Jones appeared to be the most elated.

"I was surprised and honoured at the announcement," she told The Gleaner.

But it was no surprise for her daughter, Patrice Minott, who incidentally, made the announcement at the church service.

"She is always dipping into her own pocket and feeding people. At the end of the year, every individual goes home with a package," she said.

Minott also said her mother has a great relationship with the young people in the church.

"Whatever problems they are having, they always run to her," she noted.

Jones, who operates a nursery, was chosen as the Mother of the Year because of her selflessness and other exemplary attributes.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, who was also in attendance, saluted the mothers of the congregation and challenged the nation to honour their them.

"I salute the mothers who are looking after those who have no one else to look after them. I salute the mothers who are lending a helping hand to the weak and vulnerable in our country," she said.