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Mothers’ Union was founded in 1876 by Mary Sumner, the wife of a clergyman, and a mother and grandmother, with the intention of providing a forum in which to unite all mothers in the aim of bringing up children in the Christian faith. This small parochial organisation grew steadily over the years to become the international organisation it is today.
Mothers' Union continues to be a women-led Christian movement, with 4 million members worldwide passionate about transforming and improving family and community life. Across the world members encourage one another, unlock talent, and ignite creative thinking to bring sustainable change – from grassroots to government level. The core aim of Mothers' Union remains the supporting of family life in all its forms and at all stages, and the place this happens remains primarily at parish/local level.
Like the Anglican Church, Mothers' Union is changing as life in the 21st century changes, however the need to support Christian family life is perhaps greater than it ever was, and the opportunity to engage with Christians across the world brings encouragement and delight as we discover what we have in common and learn from one another. A keystone for the Mothers’ Union has always been and continues to be prayer, with and for one another, and the personal daily prayer of Mary Sumner continues to inspire today –
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.
Mothers' Union has been a part of the life of Peterborough Diocese for over 100 years and there are currently 556 members in total, across each of the 12 Deaneries. Members are active in numerous and various ways: organising and supporting mother and toddler groups; supporting families in times of need through meals, clothing, holidays; outreach to the prisons in our Diocese; and much more. If you would like to know more about this amazing organisation and what is happening in this Diocese please contact: