Mothering Sunday

 These cards were given out by the young people of Saint Nicholas' this morning - we try to regain the sense of history with the modern commercial Mother's Day phenomena.  It can be a difficult day for many - some who have had children/young folk die, those who have never had children and others where relationships are strained or non-existent.
Yet the day has its origins far back in history when those in service returned to 'mother church' (and inevitably to their homes) on the fourth Sunday in Lent.  If we can balance the emphasis then the day is not so painful for those who find it hard and it becomes more inclusive and a celebration of the concept of 'mothering' that is applicable to all.
The cards were well received and many were taken to be given to those unable to be in church today.

 The death of Constable Ronan Kerr is, of course, uppermost in our minds this weekend and we remember his mother for whom this day must be among the most painful.
What evil motivates those who go out deliberately to kill a fellow human being?  In a society where now the vast majority want peace it is so sad that there are still others who think it is okay to take lives and to destroy.  When did this hatred first begin to take root in their hearts?  How can they be reached with the love of God?  What is it that would penetrate the darkness and bring these men and women into a place where they could accept the rule of democracy and live at peace in a society that works towards peace and justice for all?
I know that for some it is an accident of birth that they are brought up in a family or community where hatred and violence rule ... but the choice to perpetuate that regime lies with the individual.  It may not be easy to break free from it ... but it is possible.  Those who treat fellow human beings with inhumanity are answerable for their behaviour ... not just to the legal processes of the courts but also to God.

So we pray for those who are suffering and we pray for those who caused it.  Only God can reach into each heart and bring comfort or conviction.

Grant to us, Lord, we pray,
the spirit to think and do always
such things as be rightful;
that we,
who cannot do anything that is good without you,
may by you be enabled to live
according to your will;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

Celebrating Common Worship

Sunday night.