Women are to be celebrated at a series of special church services next week.

Parish churches in Peasedown St John and Wellow will distribute flowers to all women who attend their services on Mothering Sunday.

Revd Matthew Street, leader of the Anglican Churches in these villages, said:

"We're looking forward to giving thanks for our Mothers, and indeed all women, on Mothering Sunday next week.

We're inspired by not only the strong female leaders of today, but the women of the Bible too. Influential characters in history like Mary of Nazareth and Mary Magdalene, plus Old Testament figures like Ruth and Esther, all of which were devoted to God and set great examples for us today of how we can be courageous, faithful and caring for others.

Please join us on Mothering Sunday for our special church services."

Mothering Sunday has been celebrated on the fourth Sunday in Lent, in the UK and Ireland, since the 16th century. The date varies in other parts of the world. Many countries follow the US and celebrate Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May, whilst other countries enjoy the day on March 8th which is International Women's Day.

Here in Somerset, the following Mothering Sunday services will take place in Peasedown St John and Wellow:

• 10.00 am - Morning Service + Holy Communion at St Julian's Anglican Church, Wellow
• 10.30 am - Morning Service + Holy Communion at St John's Anglican Church, Peasedown
• 4.30 pm - Soul Food + Holy Communion at St John's Anglican Church, Peasedown

For more details visit the St J's Group benefice website: www.stjsgroup.church, or contact the Operations Manager Rob Bubyer by emailing [email protected] or calling 07973 972018