Our Lady Mother of Tenderness

The symbolism of our logo explained It is a network of groups of women who meet for prayer, mutual encouragement and discussion. They began in 1981 with Fr John Allardyce sm assisting a group of mothers who were looking for support and encouragement in their role as Christian mothers in Wellington, New Zealand.

Since then the groups have spread the length and breadth of New Zealand and have now become a focus group for mothers of all ages, including spiritual mothers. Its aim is to support and nurture the faith and spirituality of mothers, as when a mother is supported, a family is supported. Creating a Christian family where mutual love and care find daily expression, may be one of the most difficult of all human tasks.

In 1995 Pope John Paul II said in his letter to women. "Thank you, women who are mothers! You have sheltered human beings within yourselves in a unique experience of joy and travail. This experience makes you become God's own smile upon the newborn child, the one who guides your child's first steps, who helps it to grow, and who is the anchor as the child makes its way along the journey of life... May Mary, Queen of Love, watch over women and their mission in service of humanity, of peace, of the spread of God's Kingdom!

There are currently many groups operating from the far north to deep south of New Zealand. There are also several groups in Australia and the Pacific Islands, and a few scattered across the globe. Please let us know if you would like to be put in contact with your nearest group, or would like to set up a new group.

HOW IT WORKS

Each month from February to December, material is prepared at the Marist Centre, sometimes from material sent in by groups, or individuals. New Zealand groups receive a compact disc, accompanying leaflets, and a newsletter, to guide a monthly meeting. Overseas groups can also receive material by post (donations requested for this option) or by email notification when new material is available on this web site. Interested individuals anywhere can also sign up for the email notification.

There is the possibility of retreats in regions that wish to host one.

The coordinator visits groups in various regions every year or so for prayer and encouragement time.

We would encourage you to pray for help and guidance for your group.

You can meet as often as you wish, but material is sent from here once a month.

All groups are encouraged to consider sending a small annual donation towards our costs.

If you would like to receive our monthly material, see 'sign up' form below.

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"For the Almighty has done great things for me. Holy is His name." Luke 1:49

Motherhood is a gift of God, accepted in faith, lived in hope and fulfilled in love.

"… generations shall call me blessed." Luke 1:48

From the first moment of conception, God breathes life into a child, making the mother and father partners with Him in creation.

"It was You who created my being; knit me together in my mother's womb.

I thank you for the wonder of my being." Psalm 139

At baptism, through the power of the Holy Spirit, a child becomes a member of the church family, a child of God and heir to God's kingdom. Parents, together with god-parents and the church community, are given the grace and responsibility for nurturing this new life in God.

"We were baptized in Christ Jesus … (so that) we too might live a new life." Romans 6:3-4

A Christian mother knows she is loved by God. God gives her many personal gifts; Jesus offers His friendship and love; and the Holy Spirit strengthens her.

"What the Spirit brings is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,trustfulness, gentleness, and self– control." Galatians 5:22

When a mother co-operates with God and His loving plan for herself and her family, she is nurtured by the Holy Spirit. She becomes holy; is a blessing, and a grace for her family and others.

"The Spirit of God has made His home in you." Romans 8:9

The family is the basic unit of society and the Christian home is the 'domestic church'.

"The Christian family can and should be called the 'domestic church'." Pope John Paul II

A Christian mother nurtures a love for Christ in her children and encourages them to live a Christ-like life.

"And Jesus increased in wisdom, in stature and in favour with God and people." Luke 2:52

A Christian mother reaches out to support and encourage all mothers and is open to receiving the same from others.

"I thank my God whenever I think of you …

My prayer is that your love for each other may increase more and more …" Philippians 1:3-11

Mary is Mother of the Church, given to us from the cross by Jesus. Mary has a special bond with, and responsibility for, women who share her vocation.

"Woman, this is your son; this is your mother." John 19:26