Mothering Sunday vs. Mother’s Day: Understanding the Difference and the Significance

Yesterday, I was having a heartfelt conversation with my wife after I wished her a happy Mothering Sunday. As we reflected on the day, we noticed how many people were also saying “Happy Mother’s Day” online, which sparked a simple, yet important question between us:

What exactly is the difference between Mothering Sunday and Mother’s Day?

This isn’t a matter of correcting anyone, after all, our mothers are worthy of honor, praise, and celebration all year round. But we realized that for many, the distinction between the two days can be confusing, and in a global community, that distinction is worth understanding.

We both agreed: they are different, and they are both important. One is grounded in spiritual tradition, the other in social recognition. And both, from the altar to the dinner table, remind us that motherhood is sacred.

That conversation inspired this brief piece, to clarify, not correct, and to help us all become more intentional in how we celebrate the incredible women in our lives.

Mothering Sunday: Rooted in Faith

Observed on the fourth Sunday of Lent, Mothering Sunday dates back to the 16th century in England. Originally, it was a day when people returned to their “mother church”, the main church or cathedral of their birthplace. It was a spiritual pilgrimage and a symbolic return home.

Over time, it also became the day when domestic servants and apprentices were given time off to visit their families, often the only time in the year they could see their mothers. As a result, it naturally evolved into a day of maternal appreciation.

Today, Mothering Sunday is still observed in the UK, Ireland, and parts of the Commonwealth. It carries a quiet reverence, often marked by church services, hymns, and simple gifts. It’s a celebration of faith, family, and origin.

Mother’s Day: A Modern Global Tradition

In contrast, Mother’s Day, as celebrated in the United States, Nigeria, Canada, and much of the world, takes place on the second Sunday in May. It was established in 1908 by Anna Jarvis, an American woman who wanted a national day to honor mothers for their sacrifices and nurture.

Unlike Mothering Sunday, this celebration is secular in origin. not tied to the church calendar, but to a social movement that quickly gained momentum and global adoption.

Today, Mother’s Day is widely celebrated with flowers, cards, brunches, and public displays of love both offline and online. It’s become a vibrant, joyful, and highly commercialized event, and yet, the heart of it still beats with sincerity: mothers matter.

Why the Distinction Matters

In a world that’s increasingly connected, it’s easy for traditions to merge — or be misunderstood. But here’s why knowing the difference matters:

1. It honors both heritage and modern expression – Recognizing the spiritual foundation of Mothering Sunday enriches its meaning, while appreciating the modern voice of Mother’s Day strengthens its reach.

2. It clarifies celebration – Especially for people in multicultural, cross-continental spaces, it helps us know when and how to celebrate with intention.

3. It gives us more than one day – When we know both, we don’t have to choose — we can embrace both. And perhaps, we should.

Final Thoughts

Whether you celebrated yesterday or will do so in May, take a moment to reflect. not just on the flowers and the cards, but on the meaning. Let these days remind us of our mothers, yes, but also of our values… of our roots… of the deep grace of women who nurture life in every form.

Because in the end, whether marked by lit candles in a cathedral or handwritten notes over breakfast, motherhood deserves more than one day.

It deserves understanding.