About Mothers’ Union

Being a parent is both a joy and a challenge. It is a very important role, but one for which we have little preparation.

Mothers’ Union members play a part, through prayer and action, to support family life in their local community and throughout the world.  We share the good news of the Gospel and enjoy fun and fellowship.

We all want the best for our families and children.  The Mothers’ Union was started by Mary Sumner, a clergy wife, in a small Hampshire village.  She was passionate about supporting Mothers.  She called a meeting at the Rectory in 1876. In 1885 she was asked to speak at a National church congress in Portsmouth. In 1896 MU had  Queen Victoria as Patron. In 1921 Mary died aged 92 a year after MU held its first conference for overseas workers.

Mary Sumner’s personal prayer was:

All this day, O Lord,
let me touch as many lives as possible for thee;
and every life I touch, do thou by thy spirit quicken,
whether through the word I speak,
the prayer I breathe,
or the life I live.

Amen.

From her passion has grown the largest worldwide organisation supporting Christian family life.  There are over 4 million members in 84 countries. The main gift is the gift of faith which brings love, hope and joy. Programmes include – community development, literacy, and parenting.  There are current major campaigns to combat Modern Day Slavery in this country.  Worldwide MU also challenges racism, gender abuse and oppression.

Sheran Harper is the first overseas worldwide president i.e. not coming from the UK.  She comes from Guyana and is a woman of great faith.

The Mothers’ Union prayer reflects our worldwide role

Loving Lord, We thank you for your love so freely given to us all.

We pray for families around the world.

Bless the work of the Mothers’ Union as we seek to share your love

 through the encouragement, strengthening and support of marriage and family life.

Empowered by your Spirit, may we be united in prayer and worship,

 and in love and service reach out as your hands across the world.

In Jesus’ name. Amen

MU in the UK can sustain, strengthen and share faith.  We work closely with the clergy, and help in a number of ways and roles in our churches and communities.

In Peterborough diocese we have approximately 750 members in 45 branches.  Most members belong to a local group.  However, it is possible to be a Diocesan member.

Further information can be gained from MU branches and Jill Cannings Diocesan President jillcannings2@gmail.com 01572 821870

The central MU website has full information www.mothersunion.org