The Christian Calendar is now moving into Lent as we mark Ash Wednesday on 16th February 2010. Christian tradition encourages us to examine ourselves honestly, acknowledge our shortcomings, and seek reconciliation with God and with each other where we have compromised our relationships. Mothers’ Union has produced some material for Lent:

Lent-Easter-Meditations2010

As part of this years Mothers’ Union theme “Relationships not Rules” there is also the following prompt to our Lenten thoughts and helps us to turn them to actions: RnotR2010-LentColourChart

Many Mothers’ Union groups like to mark 25th March (known either as “Lady Day” or the “Annunciation of our Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary”) with a special service.

At the annunciation, Mary made a free choice to be the bearer of a child who would bring freedom to the entire world. Traditionally, the church has characterised Mary as silent and passive, but in fact, she is a major spokesperson for those who are oppressed. In the Magnificat, Mary tells us that justice is at the heart of the Christian message. She rejoices because of the freedom God offers in lifting the humble high.

This theme was reflected in the Lady Day service written in 2007 which can still be used by groups as the theme reflects the work of Mothers’ Union members as they seek to bring forward justice for families through prayer, projects, and speak out where government policies affect marriage and family life. You can download it here: Lady_Day_Service_2007

The theme Relationship not Rules embraces this turning point in roles, experience and gifts, and gives us an opportunity to celebrate the relationships we have, and are continuing, to build. By focusing on our diverse relationships rather than the rules with which our societies are governed and structured, we are making a clear statement about how we value relationships in the Mothers’ Union.

Mothers’ Union’s vision is to see a world where God’s love is shown through loving, respectful, and flourishing relationships. To do this, we have a set of beliefs based on the value of relationships, and the example Jesus set us in living out our faith through our relationships. More background information about the theme is available to Mothers’ Union members on the central website: Theme for 2010

There is a wealth of material available by following that link, but since this theme has significance for everyone and should have uses outside Mothers’ Union groups, some of the material is available here. Click on the links to download information and inspiration for prayer, small group work, bible study and other activities in your family and community. (We’ve used the file name RnotR2010 as shorthand for Relationships Not Rules in 2010.

RnotR2010-IntroductoryRationale An introduction to the theme RelationshipsNotRules and the material available for you to use.

RnotR2010-Blessings_Challenges_Chart A simple sheet for individuals to use to reflect on the relationships in their lives, the challenges and blessings they are bringing. A few questions will help you realise that you don’t have to face the challenges alone, and may identify where you can seek help and support. We were designed for relationship, not for acting alone.

RnotR2010-GroupMeditation_John15 A group meditation centred around a shared meal or refreshments and based on a study of Jesus’ command to love each other.

RnotR2010-BibleStudy_John8 A Bible study suitable for individuals or groups, based on Jesus’ words and actions when a group of Pharisees brought a woman to him who had been caught in adultery.

RnotR2010_Prayers A large selection of prayers and reflections relating to the theme that can be used in worship or private prayer.

RnotR2010- RulesandLawsinBible_and_Mothers’_ Union Material that makes a great resource for a local group of Mothers’ Union members to explore both the Bible and the way they approach their membership of Mothers’ Union.

RnotR2010_service – a full order of service with liturgy and readings designed to help people reflect on their relationships in the light of Biblical teaching.