100th Anniversary of Mothers’ Union in Melanesia

In October 2019 members in Melanesia celebrated 100 years of Mothers’ Union.  The celebrations, attended by approximately 2000 members was hosted by the Province at Saint Barnabas Provincial Cathedral.  Starting with a Eucharist Service let by the Archbishop of Melanesia, the Right Rev Leonard Dawea who along with the Governor General challenged all members to be agents of change in their homes and communities, and to do the social policy work pioneered by Mary Sumner.

In fact the theme for the celebrations was – “Honouring the work, achievements and life of MU pioneers in Melanesia and together further strengthen the MU work with faith and action.”  The celebrations included a drama celebrating the story of Mrs Emily Sprott, a Missionary wife who started Mothers’ Union in Ysabel in 1919.  Alongside dancing and singing celebrating the history and culture of all the dioceses that were represented.

Throughout the week long celebrations there was time to reflect on what the future of MU in Melanesia will be, on how members can continue to be pioneers and talks from different speakers sharing the current work which is happening in the Province.  During her talk the current Provincial President, Mrs Pamela Abana spoke about the Mothers Union work, but also challenged the members present to practice self-reliance. “Working in Prisons and Hospitals in Honoria.  MU visits with food and does bible studies.  MU delivers life skills, parenting and literacy to inmates… Next 100 years will see rapid changes.  MU must remain faithful in winning homes for Christ and tackling social issues.”

The last words are left to the current Provincial President and former Provincial President Mrs Mary Vunagi:

“Arise women of God” “Are we Mary Sumner’s of the Present? We must be vibrant and we must all move together not leaving behind any member.”