Mothers’ Union is a Christian membership charity that has been supporting families worldwide for over 140 years. Started by its founder Mary Sumner in 1876 in her local parish in Winchester, it has flourished into an international charity with over 4 million members in 84 countries.

The aim of the Mothers’ Union is to demonstrate the Christian faith in action through the transformation of communities worldwide. Members work at grassroots level around the world bringing hope and practical support to millions of people every year through parenting, literacy and community development programmes and as part of the volunteer base of local churches.

We are fortunate at St Michael’s to have a very active MU with many members. Meetings take place on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.00 pm in Church House (the building just up the path from the Church). Each meeting begins with a short service, followed by a guest speaker and then refreshments. There is great fellowship in these evenings and they are much appreciated and enjoyed by all who attend. Visitors, including men, are welcome to attend the meetings.

Various activities are aimed at raising funds to help those in other countries who are in need, suffering extreme poverty and starvation. We also help and support organisations at home, such as Wycombe Women’s Aid and the ‘Away From It All’ Holiday Scheme, run by MU, which enables needy families to have a well-earned break. Some MU members act as ‘Welcomers’ at Christ Church Cathedral in Oxford which has thousands of visitors each year. In addition, the MU provides support for those who may be unwell or need support in our church and local community.

There is an MU presence in the Church at Tiny Tots Services once a month, the weekly Mums and Toddlers group, Sunday Creche, baptisms, wedding rehearsals, Friendship Group (for bereaved or lonely people), etc

Do feel free to attend any meeting – you will be made very welcome. If you have any questions or need help, contact the MU representative whose details are in the Parish Magazine.