Impressions of Mary Sumner House

On Monday 7th August six of us from St George's travelled to London to visit the Headquarters of The Mothers' Union at Mary Sumner House. The House, named after the founder of the organisation, is a beautiful four-storey building with  a very tempting gift shop on the corner, at street level. It is situated behind Westminster Abbey. The interior décor of the house is blue and white throughout and is quite beautiful.

Packed lunches were eaten in the basement Conference Hall, with members from other MU Branches. The atmosphere was relaxed and very friendly.

An introductory talk was given by Parnal Rothwell, the Unit Co-ordinator for Finance and Central Services and members from other units were ready to take us around the house in two groups.

Each floor had been planned to make the most of the space available, consequently there were many oddly shaped rooms. The offices were well equipped and occupied by very busy staff, who still managed to greet us in a very friendly manner. They were obviously used to being disturbed by visitors. Talks were given by members of the different units about the work of the Mothers' Union Worldwide which were most informative.

The mailing department, behind the shop, consists of a small area with shelves all round the walls and sorting tables in the middle of the room, where orders are assembled by one man. It provided another example of the efficient working of the MU.

The tour ended in the Chapel, which is situated just behind the Reception area. The chapel contained some beautiful paintings and furnishings. We ended the tour with a short and belated Midday Prayer Service.

We walked through Deans Yard to Westminster Abbey for Evensong. The beauty of the Abbey leaves you speechless. The beautiful windows and the architecture create a sense of peace, in spite of the crowds of people congregating for the service, which is quite unbelievable. Then to have Jane Hedges, who is known to many of you, invite us into her home in the cloisters, for tea and biscuits and to meet her husband, sons and dog, was, as one of our group put it 'the icing on the cake.'

We reached home around 9pm happy at having had a wonderful day, which has left me with lots of leaflets and a strong desire to learn more.

Jean Goddard