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Commissioning of the new Worldwide President of the Mothers' Union On Thursday 15th March I was privileged to be invited to attend the commissioning of Trish Heywood by the Archbishop of Canterbury as the new World Wide President. The service was held in St Margaret's, Westminster and the church was full. Amongst the congregation were members of Trish's own family, the General Trustees and the present and former Diocesan Presidents and three former Central Presidents. In his address Dr Carey spoke about the important contribution of the Mothers' Union, past and future, both in supporting the family and empowering women. "In many cultures, women are regarded as subordinate to the male members of their society and treated accordingly. In helping to change this social climate the Mothers' Union has a major role for the future." The members of the new Central Trustee Board were also commissioned. The Archbishop named them individually. He also commented on the wonderful welcome which he received from the members of the M.U. on his recent tour of Nigeria. Trish had been Provincial President of Scotland from 1995-2000. A Scottish piper Stuart Murray led her in to St Margaret's and our departure was marked by drumming, which was performed by two members from Uganda, wearing their white uniform dresses and blue sashes. During the service a group of members interpreted Colossians 3. 12-17 in dance, to quiet Celtic music. In all, this was a most memorable service and an impressive start to a new triennium. Up to Speed - Drugs Awareness Drugs are never out of the news and, in one way or another, affect every individual within the United Kingdom. Parents and grandparents are concerned for the children and young people in their families. Yet there is still a lack of knowledge and misinformation about the substances themselves. The Mothers' Union and Hope UK have together produced a pack called "Up to Speed". Tony Rice-Oxley has a copy of this pack, which is user friendly and photocopyable, should you wish to see it. Extra copies are available at £2 from Mary Sumner House, 020 7222 5533. Margaret Symonds |
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page last updated 1 APRIL 2001 |
