As we celebrate Mothering Sunday with flowers and simnel cake and give thanks for those who have been mothers to us, our gospel reading from John reminds us that everything associated with motherhood can bring as much pain as it does joy. Mary stands at the foot of the cross watching her son enduring an agonising death. But, even in his pain, Jesus finds a way to give Mary a new family relationship of love and support. We pray for families, that the Holy Spirit will dwell among them and nurture them also in love.

Revd Liz