On Tuesday, August 9 the Mothers’ Union Mary Sumner Day Service for Bexhill district was held in St Mary’s Rye. The service was led by the Revd Christopher Breeds.
Shelley Jebb told me: “The founder of the Mothers’ Union was Mary Sumner who was born on December 31 1828. In 1876, when her eldest daughter Margaret gave birth, she was reminded how difficult she had found the burden of motherhood. Inspired, Sumner publicised a meeting of mothers in the parish to offer mutual support. Her plan was quite radical in its day, as it involved calling women of all social classes to support one another and to see motherhood as a profession as important as those of men, if not more so, something still relevant today.”
Mothers’ Union focuses its efforts on creating a peaceful and safe environment for all, fighting for gender justice, and building individuals’ self-reliance. It was wonderful to see the church filled with members of the Mothers’ Union and everyone was very proud to be a part of the day.
Heather Bruce, Lewes district chair, wrote after the service: “Members from Heathfield Mothers Union branch, including our own ‘Mary Sumner’, were delighted to join their friends in the Bexhill district in celebrating Mary Sumner Day. What a privilege to be a part of a large group, singing and praying together, in celebration of the vision of a grandmother who, so many years ago, was looking at ways to support her family in their struggles as new parents, and nurturing strong relationships.
“It was a real joy to share in bread and wine in church, followed by the buzz of conversation and laughter over tea and sandwiches afterwards. As grandparents ourselves, we can identify with Mary Sumner in seeking ways to continue her work in empowering mothers and helping to shine the light of Christ in dark corners of the world.”
Val Moore, branch leader of Hellingly Mothers’ Union added: “Twelve of our members attended the Mary Sumner Day Service. It was a beautiful day and we all thoroughly enjoyed being together and having the chance to catch up with fellow MU members at this event. My husband Rob, who is also church warden at Hellingly, kindly agreed to drive us all over in a minibus, so we all felt this made it a special outing and something we don’t do very often! We got over to Rye in plenty of time and enjoyed a coffee before the service.
“The service was lovely and a big thank you to Rye branch for organising it. One of our newest members, Celia, agreed to carry the banner for us in the procession at the beginning and end of the service. It was a special day, celebrated together in fun and fellowship and we all loved it.”
It is so important in today’s turbulent and troubled world in which many people and families are struggling to keep afloat, that groups like the Mothers’ Union are there for people to turn to for advice, friendship and support.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .