In Mary Sumner's Footsteps .. Resource Booklet 2018 - Mothers' Union
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In Mary Sumner’s
Footsteps…..
Resource Booklet 2018
1
In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: Rationale
2018 is a significant year for Mothers’ Union, with triennial elections in the UK, the election
of a new All-Ireland President and All- Ireland Unit Co-ordinators, together with the
beginning of global conversations throughout the Provinces to inform our way ahead.
As we look to the future we want to build on our heritage, and in particular, the life and
vision of our founder, Mary Sumner.
Mary Sumner was a woman of deep faith, with a heart for prayer and a determination to
make a difference in the lives of others. She listened to God and acted upon his call.
Contrary to what is often assumed, she was an older woman, a Grandmother, when she
took the first steps which eventually led to the establishment of Mothers’ Union. She was
not a natural speaker, but quiet and diffident. However, her faith and resolve to follow
God’s call to make a difference to families and society, laid the foundations for today’s
worldwide movement.
And so our theme resources for 2018 will focus on the example of our founder, and on the
core principles of Mothers’ Union; listening to God and each other, having determination to
take steps of faith as we journey together in response to His call.
The resources produced include:
Page:
2 In Mary Sumner’s Footsteps:Rationale
3 Story of Mary Sumner
5 Bible verses and Mary Sumner quotes
8 Bible reflections
10 Prayers and reflections
14 Reflective prayer activity
18 Listening Resource
19 Listening Resource notes & extra ideas
25 Mary Sumner Day service
29 Service of Thanksgiving
34 Notes for Service of Thanksgiving
35 Activities for local groups
36 Mary's Game: (Mary's Game Picture Cards can be downloaded from website)
38 How can we follow in Mary Sumner's footsteps
2
In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: the story of Mary Sumner
It all started when Mary, married to George, Rector of the Parish of Old
Alresford, was passionate about transforming the home-lives of Parish
families, by helping the women to support one another in raising their
children.
Her husband was very supportive: “just share your heart – God will do
the rest.”
She was so nervous at the first meeting of the parish women, that she refused to speak,
and asked George to take her place. In those days, it was very unusual for a woman to be a
public speaker. However, George encouraged her to speak from the heart and it went so
well that she found the courage to speak at future meetings. Her talks were inspired by her
faith – it was practical and down to earth – “Remember, Ladies, to be yourselves what you
would have your children be”.
After groups with women became well established, she was asked to speak to the men of
the Parish. Again, she was apprehensive, but agreed, and helped them to be more aware of
what their wives did for them, to show more respect and love.
The meetings grew, and included women - old and young, rich and poor. Others heard
about her work, and started groups in their own areas.
In 1876, she founded “the Union of Mothers” – with a membership card and promise: “to
be given up, body and soul, to Jesus Christ in Holy Baptism, and that your duty is to train
your children for his service”.
In 1885, at a time when it was still unheard of for women to speak to large audiences, Mary
Sumner was invited by the Presiding Bishop to speak to a packed church congress session
for women in Portsmouth. He anointed her with the authority to speak - he felt that he had
no authority to speak to a group of women whose prime concern was to get enough food
on the table so that the children would not starve. She overcame her nerves again.
“Together, by the Grace of God… we can calm each other when we are afraid; strengthen
one another when we are weak; and work together to raise our children to the glory of God.
Unity is strength”.
The movement grew further, increasingly with the support of bishops, internationally as
well as in England. Some key principles were developed, including:
That the prosperity of a nation springs from the family life in its homes
That family life is the greatest institution in the world for the formation of the character
of children
That faith is the foundation of family life
3
That the tone of family life depends upon the married life of the parents – and ultimately,
that example is stronger than precept
As the movement continued to grow, Mary Sumner asked herself what its purpose really
was, and what it should strive for. She reflected: “A true home should be a light-house,
shedding its quiet beams far and wide” – her dream was for every home to be filled with
the light and love of Jesus, and for the movement to unite many hearts in many lands,
nurturing healthy environments for little children.
And she was a living example of what she preached. From 1900 onwards, she and the
members started to advocate on issues of key importance to families and children – she
campaigned to stop children collecting alcohol from public houses for their families, and for
the age of marriage for girls to be raised from 12 to 16. She was not afraid to speak up on
difficult issues, despite resistance from members of the establishment.
She was also not afraid to act outside the social norms, to do what she believed to be right.
At a time when unmarried girls with children were condemned and cast out, she cared for
and protected her niece and her illegitimate son.
When she died in August, 1921, 4,000 women attended her funeral, which was a service of
Thanksgiving. The last memory was one of her, on her feet in the sunlight, praising God.
She could not have conceived how the seeds which she planted would grow into a
movement 4 million strong today, of members in 83 countries putting their faith into action
to nurture healthy relationships in families and communities and to fight for social justice.
4
In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: Bible verses & Mary Sumner quotes
Listening to God
Jesus replied, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.’
Luke 11:28
Eli told Samuel, ‘Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, “Speak, Lord,
for your servant is listening.”’ So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
10
The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then
Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3:9-10
He wakens me morning by morning,
wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed.
5
The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears;
I have not been rebellious,
I have not turned away. Isaiah 50:4-5
And he said to me, “Son of man, listen carefully and take to heart all the words I speak to
you.” Ezekiel 3:10
“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not
know.” Jeremiah 33:3
Jesus said: The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper
opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name
and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and
his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
John 10: 1-4
I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me – 15 just as the Father
knows me and I know the Father – and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 I have other
sheep that are not of this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice,
and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. John 10: 14-16
Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about
Christ. Romans 10:17
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone
who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face
in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he
looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and
continues in it – not forgetting what they have heard but doing it – they will be blessed in
what they do. James 1:22-25
Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I
will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. Revelation 3:2
5
Listening to one another
A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.
Proverbs 18:2 (ESV)
To answer before listening –
that is folly and shame. Proverbs 18:13
When you talk, do not say harmful things, but say what people need—words that will help
others become stronger. Then what you say will do good to those who listen to you.
Ephesians 4:29 (NCV)
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to
speak and slow to become angry. James 1:19
Journeying
The road the righteous travel is like the sunrise,
getting brighter and brighter until daylight has come. Proverbs 4:18 (GNT)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying,
‘This is the way; walk in it.’ Isaiah 30:21
What does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
Steps of faith
The Lord makes firm the steps
of the one who delights in him;
though he may stumble, he will not fall,
for the Lord upholds him with his hand. Psalm 37:23-24;
He has preserved our lives
and kept our feet from slipping. Psalm 66:9
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the
rivers, they will not sweep over you. Isaiah 43:2
We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared
beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
6
Mary Sumner quotes
Her foresight, her wisdom and judgment laid the great foundation stone for us. And as the
building grows, and far and wide her early message goes forth – the same message, though
to a different generation – we pray that the faith which shone through her every word and
thought may illumine ours, that we, with grateful hearts, may build well and truly, as she
did. Mrs Boustead, Central President of Mothers’ Union: December 1927
Mrs Sumner’s pen was as busy as ever, as the packets of answers to her letters show; some
from the Members of Parliament to whom she wrote personally; some from the highest
leaders of Church and State.
From Mary Sumner, her life and work: Mrs Horace Porter; 1928
Prayer and dogged work will win the day!
Mary Sumner: referring to her campaign to raise the standards of Christian teaching in all
schools; and also in the home
I and a certain number of earnest friends are praying daily for our present government... I
want to live in prayer for them.
Mary Sumner
Remember, Ladies, to be yourselves what you would have your children be.
Mary Sumner
Together, by the Grace of God… we can calm each other when we are afraid; strengthen
one another when we are weak; and work together to raise our children to the glory of
God. Unity is strength.
Mary Sumner
Our Society is a company of mothers, and good women possessed with motherly hearts,
women of all classes, high and humble, rich and poor, learned and unlearned, great ladies
of the land and poor mothers in small homes. We have bound ourselves together to love
and help one another.
Mary Sumner
7
In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: Bible reflections on journeying
These Bible reflections may be used singly or together.
They could form the activity for a Branch meeting or be used in a wider context, particularly
where future direction is being considered.
If time allows, give everyone the opportunity to reflect silently for a while on the passage
and then share what has stood out for them. Use these as a springboard to discuss the
questions and thoughts below.
Journeying with God
When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine
country, though that was shorter. For God said, ‘If they face war, they might change their
minds and return to Egypt.’ 18 So God led the people around by the desert road towards the
Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt ready for battle.
20
After leaving Sukkoth they camped at Etham on the edge of the desert. 21 By day the
Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a
pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night.
22
Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the
people. Exodus 13:17-18, 20-22
To consider:
Reflect on what God may be highlighting to us through this passage as we seek the way
ahead for Mothers’ Union in the 21st Century.
The closer we stay to Christ the easier it is to see where he is leading. Consider how as
members we all stay close to Christ so we can move forward together.
Share together any times when you have particularly experienced God’s leading; or
situations you’re currently facing where you need God’s guidance.
We step into the future with Christ as our guide.
Where he leads we will follow;
where he pauses we will wait;
united together as pilgrims of God. Amen
Journeying together
Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called
Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and
Saul. 2 While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for
me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ 3 So after they had fasted
and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
8
Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, ‘Let us go back and visit the believers in all the
towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.’ 37 Barnabas
wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, 38 but Paul did not think it wise to take
him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the
work. 39 They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took
Mark and sailed for Cyprus, 40 but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to
the grace of the Lord. 41 He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.
Acts 13:1-3;15:36-41
To consider:
You may have experienced times when a course of action began well but then got into
difficulties? Reflect on the passage and share together any encouragements we can take
from it.
Consider how we may get the right balance between caring for our fellow members and
reaching out to families and communities?
How do we deal with conflict and differing views amongst those with whom we work to
ensure we remain friends and companions on the journey?
Lord, be with us in all we do
as we journey together along your path.
Unite us as one in vision and purpose
to serve your world and glorify Christ. Amen
9
In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: prayers and reflections
Almighty God,
in whom we live and move and have our being,
you have made us for yourself,
so that our hearts are restless until they rest in you.
Grant us purity of heart and strength of purpose,
so that no selfish passion may hinder us from knowing your will,
no weakness from doing it.
Grant that in your light we may see light clearly,
and in your service find perfect freedom.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen Saint Augustine of Hippo, 354-430
Grant us space, Lord
within this busy day
to simply rest a while
in your presence,
whether in the heart
of the countryside,
the comfort
of a café chair,
the bustle
of a busy street,
or wherever we might be –
that we might practice
the gentle art of listening. John Birch www.faithandworship.com
Speak to us, Lord,
as we draw near to you.
Still our restless thoughts
and calm our active minds.
Quieten our spirits
to hear your gentle voice.
Open our ears to hear of your love;
open our hearts to perceive your will.
Give us your grace to heed your words
and follow where you lead.
Speak to us, Lord,
for your servants are listening. Amen
10As we adventure with you today
be the compass that guides us
the light that shines on our path
the only one we follow.
As we adventure with you today
be the word that encourages
the hand that reaches out
each time we stumble.
As we adventure with you today
let us glimpse our destination
and appreciate the places
through which you lead us.
As we adventure with you today
be the strength we need to follow
and as the day draws to a close
let us rest in your embrace. Amen
John Birch
Let us make our way together, Lord;
Wherever you go I must go:
And through whatever you pass,
There too I will pass.
Teresa of Avila, 1515-82
Loving Lord, we pray for your direction
when we struggle to find the way ahead.
Guide us through the maze of life’s options;
the conflicting opinions, wavering loyalties.
Give us strength to ignore the temptation
of selfish distractions along the way.
Give us wisdom to not only shun the bad
but to find the best amidst the good.
Guide us along your path of life
to a future filled with purpose.
11Father, I am seeking:
I am hesitant and uncertain,
But will you, O God,
Watch over each step of mine
And guide me.
Saint Augustine of Hippo, 354-430
How shall we worship our God?
We have heard what the Lord requires of us.
Leave empty talk and pride behind.
We must walk the walk.
Prepare to step out in faith, even into troubled waters.
Only God knows where we might need to go.
Don't be afraid.
Jesus will guide our steps along the way,
Teaching us to walk humbly,
To love boldly,
To serve God with body, soul, mind, and strength.
Let us pray for the humility and courage
To follow where the Spirit leads.
Mary Jo Bowman, http://rockhay.tripod.com/worship
Almighty and loving God,
take our faith, weak though it is.
Kindle the sparks of life within us
and fan a new flame within our hearts.
And so may we set out with renewed purpose,
resolved to live and work for you,
in the assurance that you are with us,
now and always.
Great is your faithfulness,
from one generation to another.
Thanks be to God. Amen
Nick Fawcett: Prayers for all Seasons; 1998
Lord, give us faith to serve you
as we follow in the footsteps
of those who have gone before.
12May we continue to be a people who honour and worship your name.
Lord, make us people of faith.
May we continue to be a people who seek and follow your will.
Lord, make us people of faith.
May we continue to be a people who reach out to the world with your love.
Lord, make us people of faith.
God of every generation,
help us, in our time, to continue the work of your great commission.
To gladly share the love of Christ
and to build your Kingdom on earth. Amen
We want for nothing
if we journey with our God,
his footsteps leading,
his hand to steady
if we should fall.
We want for nothing
if we listen to our God,
his gentle whisper
breaking through
the storms of life.
We want for nothing
if we rely upon our God,
his grace enough
to bring healing
into broken lives.
We want for nothing
in the service of our God,
in blessing others
through our lives
so we are blessed.
We want for nothing
in the worship of our God,
his Holy Spirit
the comforter
will satisfy our souls.
John Birch
13In Mary Sumner’s footsteps:
Reflective prayer activity on taking steps of faith
This resource may be used as the basis for a Quiet Day, a shorter prayer activity or as
separate reflections. You may find it helpful to link the prayers with considerations as to the
way ahead for Mothers’ Union in your own area as well as with specific local, national or
global Mothers’ Union projects and initiatives.
Steps of faith
What does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.
Micah 6:8
We set our feet
once again
on the way walked by Jesus.
These steps of peace may be difficult
in a terrain that slopes toward violence.
These steps of justice may prove tiring
as we walk against the winds of injustice.
These steps of love may be painful
with so much hatred to step over and bump up against.
Give us the wisdom
Give us the strength
to take these steps anyway.
Each day a new step.
Each step a faithful movement toward your kingdom.
Each step taken only by your grace
only in your power
our Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer. Amen
Joanna Harader, http://spaciousfaith.com
Mustard seed faith
Jesus said:
If you have faith as small as a mustard seed,
you can say to this mountain,
“Move from here to there,” and it will move.
Nothing will be impossible for you.
Matthew 17:20
14God of miracles
bless our tiny steps of faith
that mountains may be moved.
Almighty and loving God,
take our faith, weak though it is.
Kindle the sparks of life within us
and fan a new flame within our hearts.
And so may we set out with renewed purpose,
resolved to live and work for you,
in the assurance that you are with us,
now and always.
Nick Fawcett Prayers for all Seasons; 1998
God of miracles
take our tiny steps of faith
and use them to bless your world. Amen
Walking with Christ
We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works,
which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
Heavenly Father,
fill us with vision and purpose
as we step forward with Christ in faith.
We thank you for creating us in Christ
to live out your purposes,
which you have so lovingly prepared.
We thank you for uniting us with Christ
to carry out your plans
which you have made ready for us.
We thank you that walking with Christ
empowers us for the life of service
for which we are created.
Heavenly Father,
fill us with hope and joy
as we step forward with Christ in faith. Amen
15Stepping out together
The Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every
town and place where he was about to go. He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the
workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his
harvest field.” Luke 10:1-2
Gracious Lord,
send us out together with Christ,
as partners in service and purpose.
Lord of the harvest, we praise you
for those who work alongside us;
sharing tasks and sharing vision.
We thank you for each other;
our partners in service and purpose.
Lord of the harvest, we praise you
for those who walk alongside us;
pressing onwards for mutual goals.
We thank you for each other;
our partners in service and purpose. Amen
Walking on water
“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter said, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
“
Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came towards Jesus.
Matthew 14:28-29
Jesus calls us to step out on to the water with him,
to leave the safety of our boats,
and to walk toward Him in faith,
joining Him in the work
He is already doing in our world.
And when the wind and waves get high
and threaten to overwhelm us,
we remember His words:
“Don’t be afraid. Take courage. I am here.”
https://re-worship.blogspot.co.uk
16Loving Lord,
fill us with courage
to step out of our comfort
and forward in faith;
trusting in your presence
through all that lies ahead. Amen
Running with faith
Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Hebrews 12:1-2
We follow in your footsteps Lord;
running after you for the joy of the race
and the prize that lies ahead.
I will not stumble
for your hand will guide
and in your footsteps I will tread.
I will not grow weary
for your spirit sustains
and my soul shall be renewed.
I will not be weak
for your truth strengthens
and no evil shall defeat me.
From the depths of the earth
I shall soar upward
on wings like eagles,
spread the news
throughout the world,
run the race
against all odds,
and shall prevail. John Birch www.faithandworship.com
We follow in your footsteps Lord;
fixing our eyes on Christ,
trusting in you to lead us home. Amen
Final Blessing
We step out into the world with faith,
to follow where Christ leads,
trusting in his presence
for all that lies ahead. Amen
17In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: Listening Resource
A resource to help members listen to God as they consider the forthcoming elections for
roles in the new triennium; whether God is calling them to stand and who they should vote
for.
Time to be still
Eli told Samuel, ‘Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, “Speak, Lord,
for your servant is listening.”’ So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
10
The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ Then
Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.’
1 Samuel 3:9-10
It was when Samuel was in a place of rest that God spoke to him. At the beginning of our
time together let us take a moment to draw aside from the busyness of life and rest in
God’s presence.
Almighty Lord,
we thank you that we can
dwell in your presence
through the love of Christ.
Speak to us, Lord,
as we draw near to you.
Still our restless thoughts
and calm our active minds.
Quieten our spirits
to hear your gentle voice.
Open our ears to listen well;
open our hearts to sense your will.
Give us your grace to heed your words
and follow where you lead.
Speak to us, Lord,
for your servants are listening.
Almighty Lord,
we thank you that you speak to us
as we are united in prayer.
Amen
Time to celebrate
We are many parts of one body,
and we all belong to each other.
In his grace, God has given us different gifts
for doing certain things well. Romans 12:5-6
18It is always good to celebrate what has been achieved together, through the grace of God.
Take a few moments to remember and share highlights of the triennium.
This may be prepared beforehand.
Let us thank God for each other’s gifts and work, used in his service.
May this give us confidence in God’s continued provision as we listen to hear his plans for
our future.
We celebrate each other’s gifts from God.
May our appreciation of them
bring praise to the Giver.
With thanks we celebrate each other’s gifts
and their significance to our lives.
We praise God for those whose skills meet a need;
those whose creativity enriches us;
those who impart compassion and hope.
As the body of Christ, we rejoice to combine our gifts;
our own enhanced through unity with another’s.
We delight in working together for the kingdom of God.
How lavish is our God!
We celebrate your generosity to us
with thankful hearts.
Amen
Time to listen to God through his Word
Isaiah 40:27-31 or Mark 6:34-44 or another passage you feel may be appropriate for your
particular setting
One person reads the passage out loud, slowly. Then take time to read and reflect on the
passage together in silence asking God to draw our attention to words that he wants to
highlight and use to speak to us. If time allows these may be shared together so we are
united in listening to each other and to God.
Time to listen to God through prayer
Take a few minutes to pray and reflect in silence as individuals, asking God to continue to
speak and guide our thoughts as we look to respond to his leading.
You may wish to play music quietly in the background
Time to give thanks
Lord, thank you for your words of life
which challenge and inspire us.
Thank you for speaking to us today.
Lead us forward in your will. Amen
19Listening Resource: notes and extra ideas
Purpose:
A resource to help members listen to God as they consider the forthcoming elections for
roles in the new triennium; whether God is calling them to stand and who they should vote
for.
This listening resource should fit well into half an hour. If a longer time is available then
these are extra suggestions that may be helpful.
Time to be still
Eli told Samuel, ‘Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, “Speak, Lord,
for your servant is listening.”’ So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
10
The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ Then
Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.’ 1 Samuel 3:9-10
It was when Samuel was in a place of rest that God spoke to him. At the beginning of our
time together let us take a moment to draw aside from the busyness of life and rest in
God’s presence.
A longer time of silence can be held here, perhaps accompanied by music.
Almighty Lord,
we thank you that we can
dwell in your presence
through the love of Christ.
Speak to us, Lord,
as we draw near to you.
Still our restless thoughts
and calm our active minds.
Quieten our spirits
to hear your gentle voice.
Open our ears to listen well;
open our hearts to sense your will.
Give us your grace to heed your words
and follow where you lead.
Speak to us, Lord,
for your servants are listening.
Almighty Lord,
we thank you that you speak to us
as we are united in prayer.
Amen
20Time to celebrate
We are many parts of one body,
and we all belong to each other.
In his grace, God has given us different gifts
for doing certain things well. Romans 12:5-6
It is always good to celebrate what has been achieved together, through the grace of God.
Take a few moments to remember and share highlights of the triennium.
This may be prepared beforehand and the time taken to share expanded.
*A prayer tree could be used to hang on the names/description of achievements. You may
also wish to include things that you hoped would happen and didn’t, or were less successful,
for whatever reason.
See below for suggestions for more creative prayer ideas.
Let us thank God for each other’s gifts and work, used in his service.
May this give us confidence in God’s continued provision as we listen to hear his plans for
our future.
We celebrate each other’s gifts from God.
May our appreciation of them
bring praise to the Giver.
With thanks we celebrate each other’s gifts
and their significance to our lives.
We praise God for those whose skills meet a need;
those whose creativity enriches us;
those who impart compassion and hope.
As the body of Christ, we rejoice to combine our gifts;
our own enhanced through unity with another’s.
We delight in working together for the kingdom of God.
How lavish is our God!
We celebrate your generosity to us
with thankful hearts. Amen
Time to listen to God through his Word
Isaiah 40:27-31 or Mark 6:34-44 or another passage you feel may be appropriate for your
particular setting
One person reads the passage out loud, slowly. Then take time to read and reflect on the
passage together in silence asking God to draw our attention to words that he wants to
highlight and use to speak to us. If time allows these may be shared together so we are
united in listening to each other and to God.
21You may wish to reflect further together on any particular themes that may be emerging
through your sharing, which are helpful in considering the next triennium.
Time to listen to God through prayer
Take a few minutes to pray and reflect in silence as individuals, asking God to continue to
speak and guide our thoughts as we look to respond to his leading.
You may wish to play music quietly in the background
Time to give thanks
This may be expanded to include specific prayers of thanks for what has arisen through
your time of listening.
Lord, thank you for your words of life
which challenge and inspire us.
Thank you for speaking to us today.
Lead us forward in your will. Amen
Suggestions for extra activities and creative prayer ideas
Give opportunity for people to write on cards or vocalise the skills, qualities and attributes
desired for the various roles vacant for the new triennium. As each one is highlighted place
a glass pebble on a large plate or bowl which contains unlit tea lights. When the pebbles
have all been placed between the candles these may be lit as a symbol of God’s light which
enhances and shines through our human qualities and offerings.
There may then be a short time of silent prayer reflection focussed on the lit display.
Display a map of the diocese. Supply post it notes for people to write their prayers for the
diocese and the needs that Mothers’ Union may be able to address in any way. Encourage
people to stick their notes on the map and use the display as a prayer focus for all.
*Prayer Tree
Start with a bare tree skeleton and a supply of paper leaves.
In a time of quiet, think about all the things that have happened in the past three years.
What has gone well?
What has exceeded expectations?
What didn’t go as well as it might?
Write one thing on a leaf (each person can write on as many leaves as they want)
Bring the leaves to the tree.
Attach to the branches all those things which went well (blutack is the easiest thing to use).
Place at the bottom of the tree trunk the things that didn’t flourish – as leaves that have
fallen to the ground.
22In a time of prayer, look at the leaves on the tree. Thank God and celebrate what has been
achieved in the triennium.
Then reflect on the leaves that have fallen to the ground.
Why did these leaves not flourish?
What is God saying to us about these things?
Do we need to recognise that some ideas have not come to fruition for a purpose?
Is God suggesting we try again – maybe using a different approach?
You might like to encourage members to take some leaves (both those attached to the tree
and those that have fallen) to use as a focus in their personal prayers. Alternatively, you
could keep the tree as a focus, not only for prayer, but for action as you plan for the new
triennial period.
Leaf template
23Tree template – this will need to be at least doubled in size for the activity.
24In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: Service for Mary Sumner Day
Welcome to our Service. We gather to celebrate the life and vision of the founder of
Mothers’ Union, Mary Sumner, which continues to inspire us as we serve God as a
movement in the 21st century.
Mary Sumner was a woman of deep faith, with a heart for prayer and a determination to
make a difference in the lives of others. She listened to God and acted upon his call. We
too, in our day, want to follow her example as people of faith, by listening and acting upon
the call of God.
The plans of the Lord stand firm,
the purposes of his heart through all generations. Psalm 33:11
God of history and eternity,
Lord of every generation,
we come to worship with glad and thankful hearts.
Let us praise his name together. Amen
Opening hymn:
Now thank we all our God Martin Rinkart, 1586-1649
Opening prayers
God of the past, the present, and the future,
we have gathered to celebrate and to rejoice:
to give thanks for the life and vision
of our founder, Mary Sumner.
As we look to the past with thanksgiving
so we affirm our resolve to build upon this heritage
as we seek to serve God in our generation,
and establish a stable future for those yet to come. Amen
Collect for Mary Sumner Day
Faithful and loving God,
who called Mary Sumner to strive
for the renewal of family life:
give us the gift of your Holy Spirit,
that through word, prayer and deed
your family may be strengthened
and your people served;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.
25New Testament Reading: Philippians 1:3-6; 9-11
I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray
with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being
confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until
the day of Christ Jesus.
9
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth
of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless
for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus
Christ – to the glory and praise of God.
This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Gospel Reading: Matthew 4:18-22
Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Glory to you, O Lord.
As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and
his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were
fishermen. 19 ‘Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’ 20 At
once they left their nets and followed him.
21
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother
John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called
them, 22 and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.
This is the Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, O Christ.
Hymn:
Great is thy faithfulness Thomas Chisholm, 1866–1960
Homily
The notes about Mary Sumner’s life could be helpful as basis for this
Mary Sumner’s Personal Prayer
Written by her in 1876 and then prayed by her every day for the rest of her life
The reading of the prayer may be accompanied by the presenting of symbols portraying the
heritage and current work of Mothers’ Union. If there is the technology available, you may
like to do this as a PowerPoint presentation. The prayer with the additional text could be
read by two people, pausing for the offerings to be made/images to be shown. At the end,
the congregation may be invited to join in with the collective reading of the prayer
26All this day, O Lord, let me touch as many lives as possible for thee;
Lord, we thank you for the lives touched throughout the years and throughout
the world by the members of Mothers’ Union
and every life I touch do thou
by thy spirit quicken,
We pray that those whom we serve will experience the reality of your love
through our prayers, words and actions.
whether through the word I speak,
the prayer I breathe or the life I live. Amen
All this day, O Lord, let me touch
as many lives as possible for thee;
and every life I touch do thou
by thy spirit quicken,
whether through the word I speak,
the prayer I breathe
or the life I live. Amen
Prayers of thanksgiving and intercession
Loving Lord,
We give thanks for the far-reaching vision
of our founder, Mary Sumner.
We look back with gratitude for her witness,
and for all that has been achieved thus far
in the name of Mothers’ Union worldwide.
We give thanks for our development and project work.
We pray for all initiatives, large and small,
to transform families and communities.
We give thanks for our influence with governments.
We pray that our campaigns for social justice
will bring lasting change throughout the world.
We give thanks for our members across the globe.
We pray that our membership will flourish and grow
as stories of our work and achievements are heard.
As we look forward with faith for all that is to come
help us to build a future together
which will enable our work to flourish;
through far-reaching vision
and commitment to your will. Amen
27Mothers’ Union Prayer
Loving Lord
We thank you for your love so freely given to us all.
We pray for families around the world.
Bless the work of the Mothers’ Union
as we seek to share your love
through the encouragement, strengthening
and support of marriage and family life.
Empowered by your Spirit,
may we be united in prayer and worship,
and in love and service
reach out as your hands across the world.
In Jesus’ name. Amen
Closing hymn:
Hope of our Calling
© Ally Barrett, 2006
Tune: Woodlands
Final blessing
All praise be to God, by whose power
one woman’s vision became reality
through the founding of Mothers’ Union.
All praise be to God who has led us thus far
and whose Spirit inspires for what lies ahead.
The blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son,
and the Holy Spirit be among you and remain
with you always. Amen.
United in love across the world,
go in peace to serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God. Amen
28In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: Service of Thanksgiving
Welcome and gathering
Welcome to our Mothers’ Union Service of Thanksgiving. We gather in gratitude for our
heritage, and in particular, the life and vision of our founder, Mary Sumner. We praise God
for this strong foundation upon which we build as we seek to live out our vision and mission
in a 21st century context. We gather to give thanks for the faithfulness of God who
continues to speak to us, leading us forward together on our journey of faith.
Call to worship
The Lord is with us
Let us praise his name together.
You have made known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence.
Psalm 16:11
Our faithful God,
we come to worship with joyful hearts.
Let us praise his name together. Amen
Opening hymn
Ye servants of God, your Master proclaim
Charles Wesley, 1707-1788
Prayer of preparation
Heavenly Father,
Prepare us for our journey
as we determine to follow you,
following in the footsteps
of those who have gone before.
Guide us in prayer
to seek your ways for meaningful life.
Fill us with power
to follow your plans for valuable service.
Heavenly Father,
lead us forward in your love
as we gladly follow you.
United together in vision and purpose
to gladly serve your world. Amen
29Confession
Merciful Lord,
who died to reconcile us with God,
forgive us when we shun the narrow path
of obedience and faith
and walk along the broad road
of selfishness and sin.
Help us to set our life’s direction
to follow Christ wholeheartedly,
in company with our fellow pilgrims. Amen
Absolution
May our merciful Lord reach out to us
with loving forgiveness and grace.
May we know the joy of restoration
to gladly serve our God. Amen
New Testament Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off
everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with
perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and
perfecter of faith. For the joy that was set before him he endured the cross, scorning its
shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured
such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
This is the Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Gospel Reading: Luke 10:1-9
Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Glory to you, O Lord.
After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him
to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful,
but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into
his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
4
Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road.
5
‘When you enter a house, first say, “Peace to this house.” 6 If someone who promotes
peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you. 7 Stay there, eating
and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move
around from house to house.
8
‘When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is offered to you. 9 Heal those there
who are ill and tell them, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.”
30This is the Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, O Christ.
Hymn
Be thou my vision
Irish text; translator Mary Byrne, 1880-1931 & Eleanor Hull, 1860-1935
Reaffirmation of the vision and mission of Mothers’ Union
We take a moment to reflect upon the vision and mission of Mothers’ Union
and its continued importance for our world today.
Mothers’ Union Vision – a world where God’s love is shown through loving,
respectful and flourishing relationships which members actively pursue by
praying, campaigning and enabling others
and our Mission – to show our Christian faith by the transformation of
communities worldwide.
So let us with a heart full of love for our neighbour reaffirm our commitment
to the vision and mission of Mothers’ Union:
Loving Lord,
give us faith to serve you
as we follow in the footsteps
of those who have gone before.
May we continue to be a people
who honour and worship your name.
Lord, make us people of faith.
May we continue to be a people
who seek and follow your will.
Lord, make us people of faith.
May we continue to be a people
who reach out to the world with your love.
Lord, make us people of faith.
God of every generation,
help us, in our time, to continue
the work of your great commission.
To gladly share the love of Christ
and to build your Kingdom on earth. Amen
Talk/sharing of stories from Mothers’ Union work
31Thanksgiving and intercessions
We now bring our prayers to God with thankfulness for our heritage
and in faith for God’s continued leading as we look to the way ahead.
Lord, as we bring to you our petitions
we thank you for each other
and the joy of journeying together
on the path you have called us to walk.
We give thanks for the life and vision of Mary Sumner,
and for all who have gone before.
For our heritage and shared values,
which unite us with members across the world.
We pray for Mothers’ Union office holders *
both in our own diocese and around the world.
Give them discernment and grace to be ever mindful
of the needs of those they are called to serve.
We pray for the many Mothers Union initiatives *
which build and restore flourishing relationships.
Equip our members as they share the love of Christ
through acts of compassion and generous deeds.
Today in our Wave of Prayer we pray for the people and work of: *
and for the members in our own link dioceses...
Lord, we give thanks for your faithfulness.
Be with us as we journey onwards together.
Guide our steps as we follow your path.
May we continue to enrich family life
for future generations. Amen
Symbolic Offering
Symbols of the various Mothers’ Union initiatives may be brought to the front
and placed before the altar.
We offer up these symbols
of our journeying with Christ.
We pray for God’s blessing
on every step we take
in response to his call. Amen
32Mothers’ Union Prayer
Loving Lord
We thank you for your love so freely given to us all.
We pray for families around the world.
Bless the work of the Mothers’ Union
as we seek to share your love
through the encouragement, strengthening
and support of marriage and family life.
Empowered by your Spirit,
may we be united in prayer and worship,
and in love and service
reach out as your hands across the world.
In Jesus’ name. Amen
Final Hymn
Lord for the years
Timothy Dudley-Smith
Final blessing
God, go with us on our journey of faith –
revive us when we grow weary, direct us when we go astray,
inspire us when we lose heart, reprove us when we turn back.
Keep us travelling ever-onwards, a pilgrim people,
looking to Jesus Christ who has run the race before us,
and who waits to welcome us home. Amen
Nick Fawcett, Prayers for all Seasons; 1998
We say the Grace together
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy
Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen
33In Mary Sumner’s footsteps: Notes for Service of Thanksgiving
This service can be used for a Festival Service or for other occasions
and may be adapted as required. If a more informal service is wanted, use whichever
elements are appropriate to create your act of worship.
You may wish to display examples of Mothers’ Union projects and initiatives down the
years at a local, national and international level, including your link dioceses; and
information on how to become involved in Mothers’ Union.
Extra suggestions for hymns and songs:
Tell out my soul
Great is thy faithfulness
When I needed a neighbour where you there?
Now thank we all our God
One more step along the world I go
Talk/sharing of stories from Mothers’ Union work
Information on the wider Mother’s Union can be found on the website. If your diocese has
details of their activities through the years you may like to share these, drawing out
common strands between them and current activities.
Thanksgiving and intercessions
Please include the names of your own diocesan office holders if you wish, and
specific prayers for your own diocesan projects and initiatives. Also, the Wave of Prayer for
the day along with your own link dioceses.
The Lord’s Prayer may be added after the intercessions.
Symbolic Offering
You could be creative with this symbolic offering by making paper footsteps on which your
initiatives are portrayed. You could also include thoughts about future initiatives in the
same way.
Eucharist
If the service is to include a Eucharist this can be added after your intercessions, along with
the sharing of the Peace.
You could use this form of words for the Peace or choose your own:
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace.
If we live in the Spirit, let us walk in the Spirit.
http://www.churchofengland.org/prayer-
worship/worship/texts/newpatterns/contents/sectionh.aspx
34In Mary Sumner’s Footsteps: Activities for local groups
How can we follow in Mary Sumner’s footsteps?
It isn’t easy to follow in the footsteps of such an inspirational woman – but the ‘How can we
follow in Mary Sumner’s footsteps’ document in the theme resources can give you some
starters.
A Footsteps Display
Could your local group use a display of footsteps to inform your church congregation
and/or community about the work of Mothers’ Union?
Start by considering what it is that makes you proud to be members of Mothers’ Union.
Think about all that Mothers’ Union does in your local parish, in your diocese, nationally
and globally.
Cut out footprint templates. Some sample footprints can be found in the theme resources.
On each footprint put a few words (and a picture if possible) to explain a little about that
aspect of Mothers’ Union.
Use these footprints to create a display to demonstrate the continuing mission of Mothers’
Union members who are following in the footsteps of Mary Sumner.
35Mary’s Game
‘Kim’s Game’ is a well-known simple memory game – but this is a slightly different version
to help your branch think about the life and legacy of Mary Sumner.
Put out the ten ‘Mary’s Game’ pictures (or you could use some actual items) on a table or
tray. Allow members about 3 or 4 minutes to memorise as many as they can. Then cover
the pictures and give everyone a few minutes to jot down as many as they can remember.
Ask people to call out the pictures they remember. Each picture represents something
about the life and work of Mary Sumner or the early Mothers’ Union. The ‘Background
Information’ gives an explanation of the reason for the picture – as well as a challenge for
members of your group to consider, either personally or together.
It is hoped that Mary’s Game will offer a light hearted opportunity to discover more about
this inspirational woman.
Background Information
Microphone
Mary Sumner was speaking at public events at a time when this wasn’t
considered appropriate for a respectable woman. But she took these
opportunities to speak about the work she believed God was calling her to
do.
How can we tell others about the work and mission of Mothers’ Union?
Bible
Mary Sumner believed that children should be brought up in the Christian faith
and that was her primary aim in bringing mothers together in the parish of Old
Alresford.
In what ways can we support and encourage parents today to develop the faith
of their children?
People
Mary Sumner brought together women from all classes in her local
community to support them in nurturing their children, not just women
from her own social class. She also engaged with groups of men in her
parish, encouraging them to show respect and love for their wives.
What could we do to encourage a wide range of people to become
involved with Mothers’ Union? What particular groups would we like to encourage?
36Mary Sumner Prayer
Many members take inspiration from the personal prayer of Mary Sumner
and the importance of showing our faith in what we do and what we say.
In what ways can we demonstrate our faith in our church and in our
community?
Globe
The global outreach of Mothers’ Union began while Mary Sumner was Central
President of Mothers’ Union and since them, the worldwide fellowship of
Mothers’ Union has expanded to over 80 countries.
What do we know about our worldwide links through the Wave of Prayer and
what can we do to support Mothers’ Union members worldwide?
Wedding rings
Mary Sumner believed in the importance of marriage and family life and
to support married life remains the first Mothers’ Union objective.
What could you do to support marriage ministry in your parish?
Young children
In the 19th century, children were exploited through child labour in
factories, mines and on farms. Today we are aware of the potential for
the exploitation of children through the commercial world.
What do we know about the commercial pressures on children today?
How can we help families resist the pressure?
Family
When Mary Sumner saw families facing difficulties, she thought about what
she could do to improve their situation.
What difficulties do we see being faced by families today? What can we do
about this?
Mothers’ Union badge
The first Mothers’ Union badge appeared in the early 19000’s and there have
been a number of different designs over the years.
Why is it important for us to wear our Mothers’ Union badge?
Families Worldwide and web address
In 1888, the Mothers’ Union Journal was launched because Mary Sumner
couldn’t communicate individually with all the members who wrote to
her.
How many different ways can we think of that enable us to keep up to
date with all that’s happening in Mothers’ Union today?
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