Marian Mothers is network of groups of women who meet for prayer and discussion.

Marian Mothers Groups began in 1981 when Fr John Allardyce sm went to the assistance of a group of mothers in Wellington, New Zealand, who were looking for support and encouragement in their role as Christian mothers.

Since that time a number of different Marist priests have taken on the role of spiritual guide for the groups, which have spread the length and breadth of New Zealand and have become a focus group for mothers of all ages. The current spiritual director is Fr John Craddock sm, assisted by Jane Langham.

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, in any country.

Each month from February to December, material is prepared at the Marist Centre, sometimes from material sent in by groups, or individuals. Local groups can recieve an audio cassette tape, accompanying leaflets, and a newsletter, to guide a monthly meeting. Overseas groups can receive material by post (donations requested) or by email notification when new material is available on this web site.

There are weekend or one day retreats each year in regions that wish to host one.

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

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

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

   “… generations shall call me blessed.” Luke 1:48

2. 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

3. 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

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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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