Motherhood is often portrayed as a joyful and fulfilling experience — and while it certainly can be, many moms also carry unseen burdens. From the mental load of managing family life to the loneliness that can creep in despite being surrounded by people, mothers face unique struggles that the church is uniquely positioned to address. Yet, according to recent research by Barna Group and The MomCo, many moms feel unsupported by their faith communities. If pastors and church leaders want to strengthen their congregations, they must first recognize these struggles and respond in ways that provide real, lasting support.
The Hidden Weight of Motherhood
Modern motherhood comes with a complex set of challenges. In addition to caring for their children, many moms juggle work, financial concerns, social expectations and the deep desire to raise their kids in faith. According to Barna’s “Motherhood Today” study, 60% of moms say they often feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities, and 40% report feeling isolated in their daily lives. Despite their deep love for their families, many mothers struggle to find balance and connection, even within the church.
One of the heaviest burdens mothers carry is their mental load — the never-ending to-do list running in their minds. From scheduling doctor’s appointments to remembering school events and managing household tasks, the invisible labor of motherhood can be exhausting. Yet, because these struggles are often internal, they can go unnoticed by those around them, leaving many moms feeling unseen and undervalued.
Where the Church Can Step In
Churches have the opportunity to be a place of refuge, encouragement and practical help for mothers who are stretched thin. Here are a few ways pastors and ministry leaders can provide meaningful support:
- Acknowledge the Challenges Out Loud
Mothers need to hear from the pulpit that their struggles are seen and understood. A simple acknowledgment of the mental load, emotional labor and exhaustion many moms experience can be incredibly validating. Instead of painting an idealized picture of motherhood, churches should create space for honesty — where mothers feel safe sharing their struggles without fear of judgment.
- Build Authentic Community
One of the most effective ways to combat the loneliness many moms experience is by fostering deep, authentic relationships. While many churches offer “mom groups,” these can sometimes feel surface-level. Instead, create intentional spaces where moms can share openly, pray for one another and find real encouragement. According to The MomCo, 77% of moms say they crave deeper friendships, but many don’t know where to find them. Churches can bridge this gap by fostering mentorship programs, small groups and intergenerational relationships that help moms feel truly connected.
- Offer Practical Help
Sometimes, the most spiritual thing a church can do is meet a mom’s practical needs. Providing meals for new mothers, offering childcare for single moms or organizing a “mom’s night off” where trusted volunteers watch the kids for an evening can make a significant impact. Even small acts of service — like pairing experienced moms with younger moms for encouragement and wisdom — can lighten a mother’s load in meaningful ways.
- Encourage Moms in Their Faith
Many moms feel like they don’t have time or energy to invest in their spiritual lives. Between late-night feedings, work responsibilities and managing a household, traditional models of discipleship don’t always fit their schedules. Churches can support moms by offering flexible, accessible ways to grow in faith, such as
short, digestible devotionals designed for busy moms.
online Bible studies or discussion groups moms can join from home.
church services that acknowledge the reality of bringing young kids and create an environment where moms feel welcomed, not stressed.
By recognizing that mothers often feel spiritually depleted, churches can take intentional steps to refresh and equip them for their unique calling.
- Normalize Asking for Help
Moms often feel pressure to be everything for everyone, leading to burnout. The church should be a place where it’s not only okay — but encouraged — to ask for help. Pastors can model this by sharing their own struggles and emphasizing the importance of leaning on the church community. Encouraging counseling, mentoring, and even mental health resources within the church can help moms realize they don’t have to navigate their struggles alone.
A Stronger Church Through Stronger Mothers
When churches prioritize supporting mothers, the entire congregation benefits. Moms play a crucial role in shaping the faith of their children and influencing the spiritual direction of their families. When they feel strengthened, encouraged and equipped, they are more likely to stay engaged in the church, share their faith with others and raise children who grow up to do the same.
The research is clear: Moms are looking for support, and churches have a unique opportunity to meet that need in both spiritual and practical ways. By acknowledging the silent struggles of motherhood and responding with genuine care, pastors and church leaders can build a stronger, more connected and deeply impactful church community — one where no mom feels alone in her journey.
