Gentle God,

grant that at home where we are most truly ourselves,

where we are known at our best and worst,

we may learn to forgive and be forgiven. Amen

(A New Zealand Prayer book)

Thank you God,

that you are tender as a mother, as well as strong as a father.

You give us life, and care for us like a mother who will not forsake her children.

We pray for our mothers today, putting them into your hands now and for eternity;

and we ask your blessing on all our relationships in the families of our homes, our churches, and our communities. Amen

(Angela Ashwin)

Oh God, our heavenly Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named: we entrust to your loving care the members of our families, both near and far.

Supply their needs; guide their footsteps; keep them in safety of body and soul; and may your peace rest upon our homes and upon our dear ones everywhere. Amen   

(Frank Colquhoun)

Pour your love on our family and on all those who give so much of themselves through their care for us. 

Help us to appreciate their gifts and their generosity in sharing them; help us to learn from them.

May we be able to help others and learn how much you love them through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen   

(Downside Abbey)

For my mother who raised me at her breast;

And for my father who raised me through his hard work;

I trust in the son of God when they enter his presence

That there will be a hundred thousand welcomes for them in the peace of heaven. Amen

(Traditional Irish Blessing)