For almost 90 years there has been a branch of Mothers’ Union in the parish of Mill End. The organisation was founded by Mary Sumner (née Heywood) who was born into a wealthy and cultured Christian family living near Manchester. After her marriage she lived in the parish of Old Alresford, near Winchester where she raised three children, as well as greatly supporting her husband, the Rector. It was when she became a grandmother she decided to help new young mothers living in rural villages, whom she felt lonely and inadequate for the huge responsibility of caring for a new baby. The formation of the NHS was at that time decades away. Thus began the gathering of small groups of women from all walks of life, meeting in the rectory, for practical help and friendship rooted in prayer. In a few years, going from strength to strength, Mary had laid the foundations for what the Bishop of Winchester in I885 made into a diocesan organisation called The Mothers’ Union. Little would Mary have imagined then that her first tentative meetings would hold such sway today.
In over 78 countries worldwide membership continually grows and M.U. workers here in the UK and abroad give vital support to countless projects, all undertaken to demonstrate Christian faith in action. Childcare, hygiene, literacy, food production, education, as well as being there to help victims of war or natural disasters, the workload is endless and costly. As recent as 2009 the overseas fund coffers were empty, threatening vital work in Sudan with closure. But it has been reprieved by Comic Relief. Over the next five years, Mothers’ Union’s work with illiterate people in four areas of Sudan will be funded by a grant from Comic Relief of nearly £I million, and this has raised the hope that more funding can be secured to continue work wherever there is significant need.
Membership is open to all men and women who support the Christian aims of the Society, and friends and visitors are very welcome to join our meetings or other activities, usually held in the church hall and listed on the pew sheet and in the Chronicle. The new programme is currently being planned; when printed, do ask for a copy, either from the parish office, or from Maggie Owen B.A. Hons. or Dr Julie Shepherd, Secretary and Branch Leader respectively. There will doubtless be something you won’t want to miss, such as the afternoon party in January, or one of the interesting talks by knowledgeable speakers. A monthly corporate Communion takes place on the third Friday morning, and there are deanery and diocesan events to partake in throughout the year.
Finally, when in St Peter’s Church, take a close look at our colourful enigmatic banner displayed to the right of the chancel stained glass window. Designed by a branch sub-committee it was funded and presented to St Peter’s branch, and a small embroidered dedication is on the reverse side.
The M.U. www.themothersunion.org gives lots of information about this energetic organisation.
Sheila Cobham