I love this poem by Malcolm Guite, which especially celebrates single mums and the amazing job so many of them do. As always, you can hear Malcolm reading his poem if you click on the title. I’ve also added some links to resources.
At last, in spite of all, a recognition,
For those who loved and laboured for so long,
Who brought us, through that labour, to fruition
To flourish in the place where we belong.
A thanks to those who stayed and did the raising,
Who buckled down and did the work of two,
Whom governments have mocked instead of praising,
Who hid their heart-break and still struggled through,
The single mothers forced onto the edge
Whose work the world has overlooked, neglected,
Invisible to wealth and privilege,
But in whose lives the kingdom is reflected.
Now into Christ our mother church we bring them,
Who shares with them the birth-pangs of His Kingdom.
(Malcolm Guite)
RESOURCES FOR MOTHERING SUNDAY
Mother’s Union resources: http://www.mothersunion.org/MotheringSunday
CofE Going for Growth: http://www.going4growth.com/growth_through_the_year/mothering_sunday
The Children’s Society: https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/what-you-can-do/your-church/pray-worship-reflect/worship/mothering-sunday
Barnabas in Churches: http://www.barnabasinchurches.org.uk/find/all/ideas/1/mothering+sunday/
All Age Worship Resources: http://www.allageworshipresources.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/SAAW002-Mothering-Sunday-Honour-your-parents.pdf
And a Godly Play twist on the parable of the prodigal son: The Prodigal Daughter, with thanks to John Griffiths:
CofE Network of Distinctive Deacons 