Sharing the Story of Mothers’ Union on Songs of Praise

This year’s Mothering Sunday held particular significance for Mothers’ Union, as we were featured on Songs of Praise on BBC One as part of the celebrations marking our 150th anniversary. The programme highlighted the continuing impact of our work and offered viewers a glimpse into the life of Mothers’ Union today.

Filming for the programme took place earlier in the year at Liverpool Cathedral, where members from across the Diocese of Liverpool gathered for the occasion. The setting provided a fitting backdrop for reflecting on both our history and the mission that continues to shape our work today.

During the filming, members recreated a typical Mothers’ Union gathering, complete with conversation, craft and hospitality. At the centre of the meeting was the making and writing of handmade cards for people in local prisons. Each card carried a message of encouragement and hope, reflecting a wider strand of our grassroots work supporting families affected by imprisonment.

Through parenting courses and ongoing pastoral support, members in Liverpool seek to help parents maintain relationships with their children even while separated by prison. This compassionate work recognises the importance of family bonds and offers reassurance that restoration and hope remain possible, even in the most difficult circumstances.

The important role of members who are no longer able to attend meetings in person was also acknowledged. Many continue to contribute through prayer and encouragement, remaining deeply connected to the life and mission of Mothers’ Union. Their quiet faithfulness forms an important part of the strength of our movement.

Presenter Claire McCollum explored these aspects of Mothers’ Union life, alongside the story of our founder, Mary Sumner. When Mary Sumner began the organisation in 1876, her aim was to support parents and strengthen family life through Christian faith and fellowship. Now, 150 years later, that vision continues to guide our members across the world.

Sue Rivers, MU Provincial President of Wales, was interviewed as part of the programme, reflecting on our history, mission, and the broader understanding of ‘mothering’ that lies at the heart of our work. Sue commented, “Mothering is not limited to biological mothers alone. Compassion, kindness, humility, meekness and patience are gifts shared by many people in children’s lives, from fathers and teachers to foster parents, friends and community members. The loving craft of mothering has immeasurable value across the world and sits at the very heart of Mothers’ Union’s aims and objectives.”

When asked what Mary Sumner might think of Mothers’ Union today, Sue’s answer was simple: “I believe she would be thrilled. We are still serving God in our communities, responding to need as Christ’s hands and feet. While the organisation has grown and adapted over the years, we remain rooted in prayer and committed to sharing God’s love in practical ways.”

As we continue to celebrate 150 years of Mothers’ Union, our feature on Songs of Praise served as a reminder of the movement’s enduring purpose. While the needs of society have evolved over the decades, the core values remain unchanged.

For viewers, the programme offered a small window into the life of Mothers’ Union today. Behind the scenes lies a much wider story: one of members across the world working faithfully in their communities, responding to need and sharing God’s love in practical ways.

 

Find out more about becoming a Mothers’ Union member here.

Our annual Make A Mother’s Day appeal is a great way to support the work of Mothers’ Union members across the world. Find out more about the appeal and how to get involved here.