Item 9 - Mothers' Union

The Mothers' Union was founded in 1876 in England by Mary Sumner, a vicar's wife who organised a group of mothers to help each other in their responsibilities as wives and mothers, and understand the significance of the sacrament of baptism and the teaching of faith to their children. It became a diocesan organization in 1885 within the diocese of Winchester, and quickly spread overseas. It was the first women's organisation to be granted a Royal Charter in 1926. The Mothers' Union in Australia was first formed in 1892 by Mrs L'Oste, wife of the Rector of Christ Church, Cullenswood, Tasmania. Diocesan branches in Sydney and Melbourne were set up in 1896. Australia was the first overseas province to be granted autonomy on 27th November 1974. The Patron is Her Majesty the Queen, and the Patron in Chief is the Governor-General.The Mothers' Union in Australia is governed by the Australian Council which meets once every eighteen months, and consists of the Executive Council, the Diocesan Presidents and Life Vice Presidents. The Executive Council is the working body and meets annually. The Mothers' Union publishes Mia Mia magazine, previously known as Mothers in Australia and then Mothers in Australia and New Zealand. The departments include Caritas, Promotion & Development, Education, Mia Mia, Overseas and Northern Outreach, Prayer and Spirituality, Publication and Social Responsibility.