Serving Others Through Acts of Kindness: Children Honour Their Mothers Through Charity at St Mina’s Romanian Orthodox Parish in Leicester
At the beginning of Great Lent, St Mina’s Romanian Orthodox Parish in Leicester held a series of catechetical sessions and creative workshops over three weeks, dedicated to Mother’s Day and the Christian family. The activities took place within the context of the Romanian Orthodox Church’s commemorative year dedicated to the pastoral care of the Christian family and holy women.
Following the celebration of the Divine Liturgy and the reception of Holy Communion, the parish children took part in the workshops with great joy and enthusiasm. They made greeting cards, traditional Romanian mărțișoare (springtime tokens) and handmade bookmarks, each creation reflecting the children’s innocence and sincere love for their mothers.
The purpose of these activities extended beyond honouring mothers. They also sought to nurture in the hearts of the children a spirit of solidarity, compassion and Christian charity. The items made during the workshops were offered for sale, with all proceeds intended to support the charitable work of the Glasul Vieții Foundation, which provides assistance to children in need.
Through the catechetical sessions, the children explored the beauty of the Christian family as a “little Church”, learning that its foundation is our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Through educational activities and creative exercises, they discovered that a blessed family is built upon love, harmony, prayer, forgiveness and mutual support. They were also introduced to the lives of saints who grew up in families shaped by faith and Christian virtue.
Particular attention was given to the Most Holy Theotokos, the Mother of God, as the heavenly protectress and a model for mothers and Christian families. The children learned how her example of gentleness, patience and obedience teaches us to live with pure hearts and to show love towards our neighbour. Inspired by these reflections, they created greeting cards around the theme “My Mother’s Hands”, expressing the tenderness, love and protection offered by a mother.
The programme concluded with a celebration in honour of mothers. The children performed hymns dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos, together with songs and poems expressing their love and gratitude towards their mothers. As a heartfelt gesture of appreciation, they presented flowers to all the women gathered in the church.
These gatherings brought together creativity, Christian formation and a shared desire to serve others. The children were guided by the parish priest, alongside mothers who volunteered in the educational activities. In addition to developing their creative skills, the children were encouraged to put Christian virtues into practice, learning the importance of generosity, gratitude and care for those around them.
A particularly memorable occasion was the visit of Lord-Lieutenant Mike Kapur, His Majesty the King’s representative in Leicestershire; Mihaela Savu, Consul General of Romania in Birmingham; and Councillor Elaine Pantling of Leicester City Council. Their visit provided an opportunity to learn more about the parish’s pastoral and educational activities, as well as the children’s involvement in charitable initiatives and the wider community.
In his address, the Lord-Lieutenant spoke of the unconditional love of mothers and their essential role in family life and in shaping society. The Consul General highlighted the bond between generations, through which mothers pass on Romanian values, faith and traditions. Councillor Pantling, in turn, praised the dedication of mothers and their vital contribution to nurturing and guiding future generations.
The official visit also highlighted the importance of cooperation between local institutions and faith communities, as well as the shared commitment to moral education and human values. The guests congratulated the children on their enthusiasm and dedication, presenting them with certificates of appreciation in recognition of their participation.
Through initiatives such as these, St Mina’s Romanian Orthodox Parish in Leicester continues to unite Orthodox Christian formation with charitable service and community engagement. By helping children grow in faith, honour their families and care for those in need, the parish bears witness to the Christian calling to live in love, gratitude and service to our neighbour.
Fr. Ștefan Topală Parish Priest
Link: Roarch
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