Mothering Sunday

Mothering Sunday History

Mothering Sunday celebrates mothers and mother figures. This special occasion allows children and families to come together and express their appreciation for the love, care, and support that their mothers have provided over the years. It is also an opportunity for individuals to reconnect with their mother church, the primary church where they were baptised and raised.

The tradition of Mothering Sunday dates back to the 16th century in England when people would visit their mother church once a year. Over time, the practice evolved to include honouring one's own mother as well. The significance of this day in the United Kingdom is also tied to International Women's Day, which shares the theme of celebrating and acknowledging women's social, economic, cultural, and political achievements.

In the United Kingdom, Mothering Sunday typically falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent. It is celebrated in various ways, including giving tokens of appreciation such as flowers, chocolates, greetings cards, and spending quality time with mothers. Additionally, some people might choose to prepare breakfast in bed or a special meal as a thoughtful gesture.

Mothering Sunday Facts

• Mothering Sunday was originally a day to honour and give thanks to the Virgin Mary. Celebrations required people to visit their mother church. This was considered the main church or cathedral within their home area. It was believed to be essential for people to return to their mother church in order to make it a true family honoured occasion.
• Constance Penswick-Smith was an Englishwoman responsible for reviving Mothering Sunday in the 1910s. She wrote a book titled, The Revival of Mothering Sunday and she also created the Society for the Observance of Mothering Sunday.
• Mothering Sunday started to see a decline in the 1930s. During the war however, many felt the need to give thanks to their mothers for their efforts while they were away. According to findmeagift.co.uk, seeing American and Canadian soldiers celebrate Mother’s Day made many Europeans feel the need to also celebrate. Thus, they brought back Mothering Sunday.
• The origin of Mothering Sunday can be traced back to the 16th century in the UK, when people would return to their mother church (the main church or cathedral in their area) on the fourth Sunday of Lent.
• Research has shown that maternal care has significant effects on a child's physical, cognitive, and emotional development, further illustrating the importance of appreciation for mothers.
• Ancient civilizations, such as the ancient Greeks and Romans, also held special days to honor mother goddesses, which can be traced back as early as 2500 BCE.

In the News and Trending for Mothering Sunday

Mothering Sunday Top Things to Do

• Do something special for your mother. Make her breakfast in bed, take care of the chores, or surprise her with a gift.
• Plan a family vacation or trip. Take care to show special appreciation to mothers.
• Watch a feel-good movie about mothers and family to celebrate. Here are our suggestions:
  The Incredibles 2 (2018)
  Lady Bird (2017)
  Brave (2012)
• Afternoon Tea is a famous British tradition, and what better way to spend Mother's Day than indulging in a luxurious afternoon tea? Many places like The Ritz or Harrods serve specially themed Afternoon tea for the day.
• The act of giving Mother's Day bouquets or potted plants is a classic way to celebrate. They symbolize love, appreciation and a way of saying thank you to mothers.