The answer is: Rufus

Romans 16:13 - Paul felt that Rufus' mother was like a mother to him also.

In Romans 16:13, Paul greets Rufus and adds a sweet note about his mother, saying she has become a mother not just to Rufus but also to him—an act highlighting the deep bonds of love that can span beyond bloodlines. This interaction reveals the beauty of relationships within early Christianity, where fellowship often meant more than traditional family ties.

Now, here’s where it gets fun! Rufus' name shines bright in this verse, and trivia enthusiasts might know that some biblical scholars try to link him to the Rufus mentioned in Mark 15:21, the son of Simon of Cyrene, who carried Jesus' cross. If this connection holds, it means this Rufus would have grown up in a household that experienced great moments of faith, serving as a powerful testament to how encounters and relationships can intertwine in biblical narratives.

The idea of mothers in the Bible is fascinating in itself. Figures like Hannah and Mary, the mother of Jesus, exhibit profound faith and nurture. But in Paul’s compliment toward Rufus' mother, we see collective maternal love in action—those who support, care for, and nurture individuals on their life’s path, creating layers of connection that shaped early Christian communities. Isn’t it remarkable how these seemingly small affirmations in scripture can unveil the enormous texture of love and support in our spiritual journeys?