The Mothers' Union is a Christian organisation which promotes the well-being of families worldwide. The Mothers' Union (MU) in Ireland is part of a membership of 3.6 million in 77 countries around the world.
First started in England by Mary Sumner in 1876, the Mothers' Union began in Ireland in 1887 with the founding of the first group in Raheny, Dublin by Annabella Hayes. The organisation gradually spread throughout Ireland, becoming established in Cork in 1895. In July 1901 Mary Sumner met members during a visit to the country and spoke to meetings in Raheny, Bray, Killiney and Kilkenny.
There are now 385 branches throughout the 12 dioceses of the Church of Ireland which is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. The 10,500 members represent a wide range of age and interests. Membership offers fellowship and prayerful support through regular branch meetings, worship and occasional seminars and conferences.
Currently there are 32 branches in this Diocese with a total of 825 members. The Aughadown Branch was already in existence when the Ballydehob Branch was formed in January of 1906 with a membership of 54 and a Mrs Brady as their Secretary.
Membership
Membership is for anyone who is baptised and wishes to support the MU's Aim and Objectives. It is for both men and women, regardless of age or marital status. The present membership of the Ballydehob and Aughadown Branch comprises 28 members – new members are always welcome!
What we do
Throughout Ireland Mothers' Union members bring a variety of practical help and support to their parish and community. Local initiatives may include marriage preparation, parenting courses, parent and toddler groups and other community outreach projects.
Members in Ireland support the worldwide work of the organisation through its Overseas and Relief World Wide which supports community workers and helps to provide leadership training, transport and encouragement for self-help initiatives in developing countries.
Branch Activities
The Ballydehob and Aughadown Branch meets mostly on the second Tuesday of the month.
There was a great attendance at our Christmas Sing-A–Long Christmas Carols and fun night on Tuesday the 8th of December.
The evening began with prayers for Advent, readings, and a Christmas story, with some fine singing of Carols, then it was time for some games, like pass the parcel with actions to do, and presents game about the Right Family which we had great fun doing, after all that we enjoyed Christmas cake and mince-pies.
At this point I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved it this evening and especial our young organist Valerie Deady who we are indebted to for coming along and played so beautiful for us, and her sister Catherine for reading the Christmas story.
On Saturday 19th December we were involved with the Sunday school Christmas party, helped to supply some festive food, a great evening had by young and old that attended.
2010 started with our annual Quiet Day on the Monday 18th January.
Kate Neilson, Unit Co-ordinator and Sandra Dukelow, Diocesan Treasurer
Rev. Wilhelmina Nesbitt of Fanlobbus Union led us with the messages of Jesus and illustrated with images on the wall and during her talk there were breaks with songs. The day ended with Holy Communion.
Reverend Steve McCann, our new Rector, and Mrs Avril Jennings, the Diocesan President
Much enjoyed by those who attended from near and far, delighted that our President Avril Jennings was with us, and to have our new Rector Rev. Stephen McCann and his wife Heidi who’s institution was only the day before.
Reverend Wilhelmina Nesbitt and Mrs Heidi McCann, our new Rector's wife
Maria Swanton
Programme: Spring 2010
This Year’s theme: ” Relationship not Rules.’’
The Gift of Love
Almighty God, We thank you for your great gift of love- the love which we are able to share with those around us, which gives us sense of self-worth and belonging, which enriches our lives in so many ways. You have opened your heart to us- help us do the same to you.
February Tuesday 9th 8pm. Aughadown Hall
As this is Marriage Week we will begin with a celebration of Holy Communion. After that Ann Hunt will tell us about our entitlements.
March Monday 1st 10:30 Aughadown Hall
Continuation of the monthly Prayer meetings.
Friday 5th 8pm. St. Matthias Ballydehob
World Day of Prayer. An annual interdenominational Sevice.
Thursday 25th 8:30 St Matthias Ballydehob
The Annunciation of our Lord (Lady Day)
April Tuesday 20th 8:30 Aughadown Hall
AGM.
Prayer for Haiti
O God, our refuge and strength, we hold before you the nation and people of Haiti, and pray for healing in the midst of tragedy and devastation. Give comfort to the homeless, the bereaved and the suffering, courage to survivors, wisdom to those who seek to help, and light to all who live in the shadow of death. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, our rock and our salvation. Amen.
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.
The evening began with prayers for Advent, readings, and a Christmas story, with some fine singing of Carols, then it was time for some games, like pass the parcel with actions to do, and presents game about the Right Family which we had great fun doing, after all that we enjoyed Christmas cake and mince-pies. 
