On Saturday, 7 August, the Bristol branch of the Mothers Union will celebrate the charity's 150th Birthday during a special service at Bristol Cathedral. The group endeavour to support the vulnerable and marginalised through working with refugees, asylum seekers and the homeless alongside supporting several projects working with local families.
Mothers Union Worldwide President Kathleen Snow said:
“Mothers’ Union has always been about connection; the belief that it takes a village to support communities, and that we are that village, a global one.’ She added that, as the movement marks its 150th anniversary, members continue to “bring hope, advocate for change and build communities rooted in dignity, justice and love.”
The charity was established in 1876 by Mary Sumner and the Diocese of Bristol Mothers' Union joined the national movement in 1898. The Bristol group currently supports several projects, working with a wide range of groups including the homeless, children's centres, parents whose children are at Bristol Children’s hospital, young people with disabilities, refugees, victims of domestic abuse and families visiting family members in prison.
The cathedral celebration follows a special anniversary service at St Paul’s Cathedral in London in early June, where the Archbishop of Canterbury gave a sermon, reflecting on the movement’s legacy of prayer, practical action and advocacy.
The service will begin at 11am and attendees are welcome to stay after the service for refreshments.