Many years ago it was considered important that people return to their Mother Church, rather than go to their nearest Church, in the middle of Lent. Children, many of whom worked in domestic service, were allowed the day off to back to Church and also visit their Mother and family. They would often pick wild flowers or violets on their way to give to their Mum and this is where the tradition of Mothering Sunday began.
We also recognise that it’s not always mothers who ‘mother’ us, and not all who have invested a lifetime of love is us are female. For a moment, think about those people who helped to look after you and your family. It may not have been your mum, it could have been another family member, perhaps grandmother or godparent. In my own family, my auntie Chris frequently used to help bring us up, along with my own mum and dad. She was wonderful, and made the best French toast with bacon I’ve ever had!
But this time of year can be as difficult as it is joyful. Whilst we can be thankful for all the good times in our own experience of growing up, there might be some aspects of our family life that we’d prefer remained covered up, elements of our experience we’d prefer were airbrushed out of the photo. The Bible reminds us that God cares intimately for us, not matter what our experience of family: ‘O Lord, you have searched me, and you know me, You know when I sit and when I rise: you perceive my thoughts from afar. For you created my utmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.’ (Psalm 139) Perhaps mindful of this Psalm, in 1109, Anselm, Archbishop o Canterbury at the time, wrote these words of comfort:
Jesus, like a mother you gather your people to you;
you are gentle with us as a mother with her children.
Despair turns to hope through your sweet goodness;
through your gentleness we find comfort in fear.
Your wrath gives life to the dead,
your touch makes sinners righteous.
Lord Jesus, in your mercy heal us;
in your love and ternderness remake us.
In your compassion bring grace and forgiveness,
for the beauty of heaven may your love prepare us.
Everyone is welcome to join us at Church for Mothering Sunday, 30th March 2025. Times and locations are on the website and note that the clocks go forward on Mothering Sunday also.
Rev’d Andrew Hiscox