4th Sunday of Lent 2026 - Mothering Sunday (Online Holy Communion)
2026-03-15 09:00 - 2026-03-20 23:59 UTC
Our Lenten journey continues. Lent is a time for self-examination, penitence, self-denial, study, alms-giving, all in preparation for Easter. It lasts for forty days and forty nights reminding us of Jesus' time spent in the wilderness, being tested by Satan.

The Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare or Refreshment Sunday) was allowed as a day of relief from the rigour of Lent, and is the background to the modern observance of Mothering Sunday. This easing of the Lenten fasting for Laetare Sunday was marked by its use of Rose coloured vestments.

If through poor health or infirmity you are unable to attend a service in Church, you are warmly invited to join in with our Rector, The Revd Mark Woodrow, in an act of Spiritual Communion from your own home, as he celebrates Holy Communion from the Vicarage.

The readings for today are Exodus 2:1-10, Colossians 3:12-17, and Luke 2:33-35.

The hymns for today are, Tell out, my soul, and, For Mary, Mother of our Lord.

A service booklet to accompany this weeks service is available to download below. Please email rector@stourvalley.org.uk if you would like to receive a copy each week.
