Mothers’ Union is bringing together around 2,000 members of its worldwide family in Durban, South Africa, this week for a landmark four-day gathering to mark the movement’s 150th anniversary (September 30 - October 3). Themed 'One Worldwide Family: Growing in Faith, Living in Action, United in Fellowship,’ the meeting will celebrate the movement’s 150-year history and explore its vision for the future.

The occasion will give thanks for the contribution Mothers' Union members have made throughout the organisation's history, while looking ahead to the changing needs of women, families and communities. It will celebrate the diversity of Mothers’ Union around the world and explore the place of faith, service and fellowship in the years ahead. It will bring members together, across countries and generations to share stories and build relationships.

Kathleen Snow, Worldwide President of Mothers’ Union, said: ‘There is something incredibly special about bringing our worldwide family together in one place. For 150 years, Mothers’ Union members have been quietly and faithfully making a difference in their families and communities. To see around 2,000 members gathered here in Durban, representing so many countries and cultures, is a wonderful celebration of everything that makes Mothers’ Union what it is today.’

The Rt Revd Vicentia Kgabe, Bishop of Pretoria, will be one of the keynote speakers. Bishop Vicentia said: ‘It is a privilege to welcome Mothers’ Union to South Africa at such an important moment in its history. When people from different parts of the world come together, we have an opportunity not simply to celebrate, but to listen to one another and to learn from the realities of our different communities. Our faith calls us to turn what we hear into action, particularly where families and communities are facing difficulty and change.’

The Worldwide Gathering will culminate in a special closing Eucharist, bringing together the thousands of members and guests in worship and thanksgiving.

The service will be attended by the Most Revd Dr Thabo Makgoba, Archbishop of Cape Town and Primate of Southern Africa, marking the significance of the gathering being hosted in South Africa and Mothers’ Union’s place within the worldwide Anglican Communion.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, will preach at the closing Eucharist, bringing the gathering to a close with a message of faith and hope for the future. 

Organisers say that 'with families and communities facing increasing challenges, Mothers’ Union believes its work is needed now more than ever. The movement is committed to growing, reaching more people and strengthening its presence in communities, ensuring its members are equipped to respond to local needs with practical action, compassion and faith.'

More information

Read about a service at St Paul's Cathedral earlier this year to celebrate the legacy of the Mothers' Union which started in England 150 years ago. 

See a recent message of support from Archbishop Sarah for Mothers' Union anniversary at a webinar hosted by three Anglican Networks in recognition of the diverse and integral role of the movement in many parts of the Anglican Communion.