This year, Mothers' Union marks 150 years since it was founded in the small parish church of Old Alresford, Hampshire, by Mary Sumner - a home-educated young vicar's wife with a powerful vision. She dreamed of women, regardless of class or status, coming together in faith to support one another and strengthen family life within the Church.
From that small spark of an idea, a global movement was born. Today, 150 years later, Mothers' Union has grown to around four million members in 84 countries, working to improve the lives of individuals, families and communities around the world. At the heart of all they do is a belief that faith and compassion can transform lives.
"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)
And shine a light is exactly what our members do. Across the Diocese of Leicester, in the city of Leicester and throughout the county of Leicestershire, Mothers' Union members support some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
Each year, they help provide a holiday for disadvantaged families, collect gifts and Easter eggs for children with parents in prison, donate essential supplies for babies and new mothers through Baby Basics Leicester, knit teddy bears for Women's Aid Leicester and other charities, and contribute food and practical items to support Saffires in its work caring for women involved in Leicester's sex industry.
They also speak out against injustice, raising awareness of issues such as modern-day slavery, domestic abuse and gender inequality, while holding those affected in prayer.
Their work is guided by three core pillars of transformation: Ending Violence, Ending Injustice and Ending Poverty.
St Paul's Cathedral 150th Anniversary Celebration
Several members from the Diocese of Leicester joined more than 1,600 others at St Paul's Cathedral on 10 June to celebrate 150 years of Mothers' Union. It was a wonderful occasion, with the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd Dame Sarah Mullally, preaching and presiding. Several former Worldwide Presidents were also present. The service was both inspiring and uplifting, reflecting the rich history and ongoing mission of Mothers' Union around the world.
Celebrations at Leicester Cathedral
On 9 August, Mothers' Union members from across the Diocese were welcomed to Leicester Cathedral for a special service celebrating the 150th anniversary. It was a joyful occasion enjoyed by all, and special thanks go to the Revd Canon Emma Davies for her work in planning the service.
The service was led by the Very Revd Karen Rooms, Dean of Leicester, and featured uplifting singing from the Zimbabwe National Anglican Fellowship (ZINAFE) Mothers' Union LENO Branch, representing Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire.
Ruth Fryer, President of Leicester Diocesan Mothers' Union, spoke about current projects across the Diocese, and the Rt Revd Martyn Snow, Bishop of Leicester, spoke on the continuing importance and impact of Mothers' Union's work.
Following the service, everyone was invited to enjoy a slice of celebration cake and refreshments together.
Ruth also introduced plans for this year's 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. As part of the initiative, Mothers' Union members will be encouraged to host a "Big Knicker Night" to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the Mothers' Union Rise Up! campaign, while collecting new underwear to be donated to local charities supporting women and families in need.
Join Us, Join In
As we celebrate 150 years of courage, care and community, we are also looking to the future. There is a place for you in Mothers' Union.
To find out more about what is happening near you or how to become a member, visit:
www.mothersunionleicester.org.uk
www.mothersunion.org
Or contact the Diocesan Administrator, Kate Cooper, at kate.cooper@leicestercofe.org