We pray especially for all who find Mothering Sunday painful: 

We pray for mothers who watch over children who are ill and children who watch over their suffering mothers; 

We remember mothers who are apart from their children and mothers who grieve because their children have died. 

For those who longed for children and who have none For those without their mothers because of illness or death

For children who are abused or neglected. 

And all who suffer the impact of family breakdown 

We pray for those who can’t see their mothers today; 

For children missing their mothers on this day. 

We ask that you would be a light in the darkness. 

Tender and compassionate God 

surround us all in your loving embrace; 

and hold us always in your care. 

Lord, in your mercy 

Hear our prayer.