Our Diocesan President writes:
Dear Fellow Members,
Margaret Stephens attended the Commissioning of the Worldwide President and the Board of Trustees of the Mothers Union. She writes “It was a privilege to be present at the Commissioning in Southwark Cathedral when the Archbishop of Canterbury gave us food for thought and action, to act justly, walk humbly, answering God’s call to service with love and mercy. The cathedral was packed with members from around the World, including many from Ireland, praying and singing, the enthusiasm of the Zimbabwean Mothers Union touching many hearts. The hymn “Brother Sister Let me serve you”, gave us all hope to listen and respond to God’s call in our small humble way.”
Margaret Crawford and the Board of Trustees of Mothers Union in Ireland were commissioned in St. Macartin’s Cathedral, Enniskillen by.Archbishop of Armagh. It was an inspiring service and as the closing hymn suggested ‘Put all your trust in God, in duty’s path go on; walk in his strength with faith and hope, so shall your work be done’. And so we begin our term of office.
Some questions for consideration following a recent Conference::
“Who is Christ for the twenty-first centurty?
How can I make my faith real to those who are openly hostile?
Is the church actually good news for the poor and the planet?
Why aren’t people interested in Christianity but they are in Big Brother?
And finally:
Some excerpts from the Faith and Policy Discussion Document just issued:
“Where there is no vision the people perish” Proverbs 29.18
The MU’s vision and strategy must be based on a realistic understanding of its environment, the resources at its disposal and the opportunites that exist. It must also be grounded in reflection, prayer and openness to God.
“Our most important task is to give our neighbour dignity in Christ. This is our spirituality and it walks hand in hand with our work. “
Phyllis.
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The Annual Young Families Conference held in Bewleys Hotel, Leopardstown, in early March, was a great success, and thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.
nine delegates from six branches in Cashel and Ossory joined over 70 other young women from every diocese in Ireland. The dinner and social evening on Friday was a good way of meeting young women from other dioceses, and got the weekend off to a good start.
Saturday's conference was addressed by All Ireland President, Margaret Crawford, and Dr Dickie Barr 'Love for Life' who spoke on the different relationships in our lives. We were all left with a lot of food for thought, and came away looking forward to next years' weekend. If you missed this year’s conference, consider coming next year, you won't be disappointed.
Linda Ward
9th April 2007
Forthcoming Events 2007
Diocesan Tour –
Monday, 30th April – Friday, 4th May.
Interested? Contact Margaret Dowse
(053) 9426294
Prayer Walk
Wednesday 30th May 2007 at 2.30 p.m.
at Ballymore House, Camolin, Co. Wexford.
Prayer Walk in the grounds followed by a visit to the Family History Museum and Afternoon Tea.
Cost €10
To facilitate catering arrangements names, together with fee should be sent to Bettie Wilkinson
by 23rd May.
We hope for a good turn out on the day.