For two thousand years, the Virgin Mary has been depicted throughout art, literature and culture as symbolising the perfect mother: chaste, beautiful, meek, mild and white. These supposed virtues and symbols have penetrated not just Christianity but wider popular culture, and contributed to harmful views about motherhood and what it is to be a woman.

Chine McDonald will deconstruct the myth of perfect motherhood and reflect on its theological, social and personal impact, proposing a more authentic, grace-filled way forward.

Chine McDonald is the Director of Theos, the religion and society think tank. Previously she headed community fundraising and public engagement at Christian Aid. The author of the best-selling God is Not a White Man (and other revelations), her latest book is Unmaking Mary: Shattering the Myth of Perfect Motherhood.

BSL interpretation will be provided: please let us know if you require seats in the area reserved for this by emailing stpaulslearning@stpaulscathedral.org.uk.

The event is free, but if you are able to make a donation to the continuing learning programme at St Paul’s Cathedral when you register for the event we would be very grateful.

(Image credit: Donna Ford)