The Mothers’ Union on the Isle of Man is celebrating the founding of the Mothers’ Union 150 years ago.
At a Festival Eucharist in St German’s Cathedral, Peel, on Sunday 9th August, the pioneering vision of vicar’s wife, Mary Sumner, was celebrated – a vision which laid the foundations of a movement for supporting and nurturing young families – a movement that is now global.
After the opening worship and welcome, Bishop Tricia lit a special Mothers’ Union Anniversary candle created by Manx resident Katie Jacobs, and then led the Anniversary Provincial Prayer for the Province of York.
Lord of all life,
we give you thanks for the 150th anniversary of the Mothers’ Union.
We bless you for the vision of Mary Sumner
to share the love of Jesus in support of family life.
We praise you for the mission and service of the Mothers’ Union across the world.
As we continue in the vision of our founder in this land,
we especially offer to you our work of outreach in prisons
and campaigns against domestic abuse, gender-based violence and modern slavery.
We pray that you will pour out your Spirit upon us
to bless, renew and refresh the work of the Mothers’ Union in the Province of York.
Together and dispersed, may we bring glory to Jesus and hope to our communities.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Festival Eucharist was led by Bishop Tricia, assisted by Rev Dr Ian Faulds, and music was provided by Dr Peter Litman and The Together Gospel Choir (MU), led by Janet McDowell. Alongside the singers, Paul Herrington accompanied the choir on piano, and Jane Creer on percussion. One of the Gospel Choir songs, “Rejoice!”, was also composed and arranged by Paul Herrington. Members of the Mothers’ Union led the prayers.
Before the worship ended, Mothers’ Union Trustee Caroline Salmon spoke on behalf of Isle of Man President Ann Corlett to thank all involved for their commitment and support. Ann Corlett had been unable to attend at short notice, and everyone sent their warm greetings to Ann, with thanks for her committed leadership of the Mothers’ Union on the Isle of Man.
Following the service there was a quiet ceremony in the Cathedral’s Knox Garden where Bishop Tricia, assisted by Dean Nigel, planted a young oak sapling to commemorate the 150 years of the Mothers’ Union.
In the meantime, while the celebration tree was being planted, a glorious spread of refreshments were provided in the Cathedral by Mothers’ Union members, where everyone could enjoy relaxed conversation with friends and acquaintances.
If you want to know more about the Mothers’ Union or get involved on the Isle of Man,
here is the link to their Facebook page.