As Mother’s Day approaches here in the U.S., I thought I’d share with you some helpful articles I found. Many of them are good articles to share with your pastor or with people who may have a difficult time understand why going to church on Mother’s Day is hard for women struggling with infertility. Several are specifically geared towards pastors and the church. In my opinion, none of the links below lead to bitter or angry blog posts. Rather, they share their stories in hopes of generating understanding and authentic dialogue.
Affirming All Women in Church on Mother’s Day by Rev. Michelle L. Torigian
“By the church neglecting the hearts of women who are not mothers, women continue to feel a sense of shame for “forgoing” the role of motherhood, even if it wasn’t a choice.”
An Open Letter to Pastors: A Non-Mom Speaks About Mother’s Day by Amy Young
“…I believe we can honor mothers without alienating others. I want women to feel welcome, appreciated, seen, and needed here in our little neck of the body of Christ.”
Christian Infertility & Re-Thinking Mother’s Day by Sarah Arthur
“Yes, it is good for churches to celebrate mothers. But it is also vital for the church to lament the losses that are not merely personal, but communal.”
Mother’s Day, Infertility, and the Church by Jason Johnson
“It is our privilege to celebrate children and family in the Church, but also our responsibility to serve well those who are struggling with the pain and heartache of not having their own yet.”
Mourning With Those Who Mourn on Mother’s Day by Courtney Reissig
“May our churches be a place where the glory of motherhood is upheld and honored, but the pain and sorrow of those who long for what they do not have is honored as well.”
Remember the Infertile on Mother’s Day by Russell Moore
“Regardless of how you do it, remember the infertile as the world around us celebrates motherhood. The Proverbs 31 woman needs our attention, but the 1 Samuel 1 woman does too.”
Also, if you’re in a position where you feel comfortable sharing with your pastor, you might want to send him or her this wonderful “We Remember You” bulletin insert Lesli at Dancing Upon Barren Land has designed. (Follow the link and scroll down to the bottom left of the web page).
Have you come across any helpful Mother’s Day articles? Please share them in the comments below.
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