Mothers’ Union Members Gather at Chester Cathedral to Celebrate Mary Sumner Day

The special Choral Evensong service brought together members for an afternoon of worship, thanksgiving and fellowship as they reflected on the legacy of Mothers’ Union founder Mary Sumner and the continuing impact of the organisation today.

Mary Sumner Day forms part of the Mothers’ Union’s 150th anniversary celebrations and provides an opportunity to remember the vision, faith and commitment that have inspired generations of members. This year's reflections focused on Christ’s words: “Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.”

It was a joyful occasion that encouraged members to look back with gratitude for all that has been achieved over the past century and a half, while looking ahead with hope to the future of the organisation.

Diocesan President Di and Diocesan Secretary Dawn Colwell were invited to read the lessons during the service, while Diocesan Chaplain

Canon Vivien led the prayers of intercession.

Speaking after the event, Dawn said: "The service gave us a beautiful opportunity to give thanks for the vision and faith of Mary Sumner, and for the countless members who have carried that vision forward over the past 150 years. Seeing so many members gathered in the Cathedral was a wonderful reminder that each branch is part of something much wider: a diocesan, national and worldwide family united in prayer, fellowship and service."

Following the service, members enjoyed refreshments together in the Cathedral Refectory, providing an opportunity to catch up with friends from across the diocese and celebrate this significant anniversary milestone.

Special thanks were given to Ann Peach and the Cathedral team for organising the refreshments, and to Di, Heather, Joan and Ann for serving drinks and helping to make the afternoon such an enjoyable occasion.

The gathering also featured the display of diocesan Mothers’ Union banners, highlighting both the work members support throughout Chester Diocese and the organisation’s 150th anniversary theme,

"Lighting the way for generations to come."

For those unable to attend in person, the service was streamed and remains available to watch on Chester Cathedral’s YouTube channel.

Although many members gathered in Chester, Mary Sumner Day was also marked in churches and communities across the diocese through prayer, worship, anniversary candle-lighting and local celebrations. Members are being encouraged to share photographs of how their branches commemorated the day, helping to create a wider picture of the many ways Mothers’ Union members joined together in marking the anniversary.

Reflecting on the celebrations, Dawn added: "Yesterday was one moment in a story that began 150 years ago with one woman's faith and willingness to respond to the needs she saw around her. Our branches may look very different from those of Mary Sumner's day, but prayer, fellowship, care for families and service within our communities remain at the heart of who we are."

As the Mothers’ Union continues its anniversary year, members across Chester Diocese are giving thanks for those who have gone before them while looking forward with confidence and hope, praying that God will continue to guide the organisation as it serves communities and supports families for generations to come.