Cards and gifts go on sale for Mother’s Day well in advance. Hotels, restaurants and cafes promote their special menus. The mood is one of celebrating and treating generations of mothers, but the day itself can bring a mix of emotions. Whether it’s joyful, complicated or filled with sadness, Mother’s Day – and getting ready for it – is a big day for families, so get in touch to let them know the local church is there for them in good times and difficult times. Here are some ideas to help.
What to call it? The church calls the day Mothering Sunday but almost everywhere else it will say Mother’s Day. Think about using both terms, but perhaps use Mothering Sunday for a service or space that is about remembering, loss and difficulty, keeping Mother’s Day for the things that involve treating and thanking Mum. Don’t forget those who may not be our actual Mum but who do ‘mum’ things!
In the weeks leading up to Mothering Sunday, activities in Sunday School, parent and toddler groups or the local primary school could have a theme of preparing something for Mothering Sunday. Plain bunting has all sorts of uses and can be drawn on/coloured in. Children could draw their mum on a flag, or add a prayer for her, or do a hand print with a promise to give mum a helping hand – you’ll have lots of great ideas too.
Perhaps children could put together posies for giving out in the Mothering Sunday service.
For those who find the day painful, whether through bereavement, separation or regret, offer space for them to reflect and pray, even if they don’t come to the Mothering Sunday Service. A simple card letting them know you’re thinking of them, offering to have the church open to come and light a candle for Mum on a particular day, sharing the online Light A Candle feature on social media, are all really simple ways to support bereaved people around Mother’s Day.
PUBLICISING THE DAY
These free editorial articles can be used in your parish magazine to help publicise your service. Edit with your service details.
As well as generally publicising your Mothering Sunday service in the parish, try sending out a focused, personal invitation to families who have a baptism service booked in the coming weeks and months. This can be by post, email or on social media – or a combination of all three!
The godchild/godparent relationship is really special and can still be celebrated and supported during this time. Whatever the pandemic situation is, there will still be things you can do. Find resources here to help.