The Mothers’ Union is a Christian organisation which promotes the well-being of families worldwide. In Southwark, members volunteer and pray for a variety of projects that reflect the organisation’s aim and objects, as well as raising funds to help families worldwide.
Aim and objects
The aim of the Mothers’ Union is the advancement of the Christian religion in the sphere of marriage and family life.
The objects of the Mothers’ Union are:
- to uphold Christ’s teaching on the nature of marriage and to promote its wider understanding
- to encourage parents to bring up their children in the faith and life of the Church
- to maintain a worldwide fellowship of Christians, united in prayer, worship and service
- to promote conditions in society favourable to stable family life and the protection of children
- to help those whose family life has met with adversity.
Meet our President
Penny Lochead is the President of Southwark Diocese Mothers’ Union for 2025-2027. Previously she has served as joint Co-ordinator Communications and Fundraising, followed by Co-ordinator of the Faith and Policy Unit and also Vice President of the Reigate Area and is currently also a Reader with Permission to Officiate.
Welcome letter
Dear friends,
Jeremiah 29 v 11 says ‘For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’
That is the Bible verse which has been the basis of my agreeing to take on the role of your Diocesan President. I know God has plans for Mothers’ Union in Southwark and these words are affirming and encouraging as we journey together as members of our wonderful world-wide organisation seeking to offer care and support for families. With a new Trustee board and a new theme for the next three years “Join Us, Join In’” we continue to grow in confidence to ensure we have continued impact on social justice, building on our connections with church mission in our parishes and across the diocese.
We are looking forward to celebrating the150th anniversary next year and plans are underway for national events. Together we shall plan our celebrations in Southwark on a diocesan level and in our church communities.
God has his plans, we need to discern just what they are and how we fit in. My challenge to us all over the next three years is that we build our members by 150 – that appears a large number but broken down becomes 50 members a year, that is barely 1 a branch.
Meanwhile we continue to root all we do in prayer. ‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Yours in faith,
Penny
Safeguarding
The safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults is of prime importance to the Mothers’ Union, and the central Board of Trustees has agreed a statement of commitment to safeguarding.
Read the Mothers’ Union statement of commitment here.
