04.05.2012
Mums in May Officially Launched in Christ Church
Mothers’ Union members from all over Ireland gathered in Christ Church Cathedral for the inaugural Mums in May tea party on May 3. Over 120 women, drawn from all 12 dioceses, attended the monthly communion service in the cathedral before filling the Chapter Room for the launch of the ‘ultimate tea party’.
Mum’s in May is an all–Ireland fundraising initiative which forms part of the 125th anniversary celebrations marking the founding of Mothers’ Union in Ireland. Throughout the month of May members, branches, dioceses, friends and supporters of Mothers’ Union will be hosting coffee mornings, afternoon tea parties, barbecues and other events. Apart from the fun and fellowship, the tea parties will help raise funds for diocesan projects, overseas projects and the Centenary Fund.
Speaking at the launch, former All–Ireland president of the Mothers’ Union, Ann Barrett, thanked everyone for coming out in such numbers. She said it was wonderful to see everyone there and reminded members that the Mothers’ Union communion service takes place in the cathedral on the first Thursday of every month. Mrs Barrett also thanked their chaplain, the Revd Paul Houston, for his assistance.
All Ireland President, Ruth Mercer, congratulated everyone who worked on the Mums in May project, particularly Moira Thom and Phyllis Grothier who came up with the idea. She thanked the Dean of Christ Church, the Very Revd Dermot Dunne, for allowing them have the inaugural tea party in the cathedral.
The Dean, who presented a cake for the launch, said it was always a pleasure to welcome the Mothers’ Union to Christ Church and was delighted that such a large crowd had turned up. “It shows how strong Mothers’ Union is and it is in community that strength comes,” he said. He looked forward to the 125th anniversary celebration service in the Cathedral on September 23. The Dean and Mrs Mercer ceremonially cut the cake to officially launch Mums in May.