There was an excellent turnout for the annual Newcastle Mothers’ Union Diocesan Festival, which took place on Saturday 8 June.
This year’s host church, St James’ Benwell, was packed for the gathering for members, supporters and visitors of the MU to come together in fellowship and worship.
The church opened its doors at 11.30am as a barbecue lunch got underway. There were also stalls and crafts by Mothers’ Union members. Good weather on the day enabled those present to explore the historic churchyard, including the grave of Richard Grainger, who was responsible for Newcastle’s 19th century redevelopment.
The day also included an art exhibition by the ‘Something Wonderful’ community project, reflecting personal local stories as well as MU projects.
Based at St James' Benwell, Something Wonderful engages with hundreds of people in the community every week, through its welfare support hub, pay-what-you-feel cafe, inter-faith and inter-cultural community events, an art club and groups in creative writing, gardening and local history. The activities are for anyone who may be isolated or vulnerable.
Bishop Helen-Ann presided and preached at the afternoon Eucharist service, and also helped with the raffle, drawing out all of the many winning tickets.
Newcastle Mothers' Union expressed a huge thank you to Bishop Helen-Ann and to all involved with the day. After the event, one member said: “It was exactly what the headline (above) says -something wonderful did happen in Benwell today," before insisting that he good work would continue.
Founded in 1876, with the encouragement of Newcastle Diocese’s first bishop (Rt Revd Earnest Wilberforce) the Mothers’ Union is a Christian membership charity which works to support families, communities and those whose lives have met with adversity.
Newcastle Mothers’ Union is part of an international and inclusive network of four million members across the Anglican Communion, serving Christ in their communities through prayer, financial support and actively working in programmes that meet local needs.
For more information visit www.munewcastle.org.uk