Three quarters of mothers in full-time ministry believe having children has made them a better vicar.

But the research, completed by Christian Research to coincide with Mothering Sunday, also shows that half of clerical mums struggle to find enough time with their own children.

Quality time with husbands, friends and hobbies also suffers for female Church of England leaders, the report shows.

Gerry Stacey of Christian Research said: "As we celebrate Mothering Sunday we need to remember the hidden mums in our churches. They give a huge amount of time to help Britain's churches flourish. 

"But congregations need to recognise that they are mums too and need to spend time with their families."

The survey of 176 mothers in full-time ministry across the UK, which took place last week, showed 57 per cent felt they don't spend enough time with their closest friends, and 60 per cent don't have time for a hobby.

Between 2002 and 2012 the number of full-time female clergy rose across the Church of England by 41 per cent, while the number of male clergy decline.

Christian Research created their 10 commandments for mums in ministry following the research.

The list includes letting others help, being flexible, making time for themselves and not feeling guilty for putting children first.