PRAYER DIARY

AMUA – 16 days of activism against violence

‘The Lord’s prayer says so much is so few words.’

As you reflect on this wonderful prayer that Jesus taught may you be blessed and may your faith in our Lord be enriched.

Christine
Prayer and Spiritualty
Mothers Union Australia

2023 AMUA Mid Year Meditations – FINAL

“Transformed Mothers Union newsletter front cover by Nana Marea and her grandson (6). How wonderful.”

On April 13th we celebrated Beth Weeks’ 90th Birthday, Jeanette Holland’s 60 years and Leonie Benson’s 25 years of membership.

With Elizabeth Bissaker, our Diocesan President, Denise Brown, our immediate Past President, Laurel Brook,  Jan Garrard, friends and family we began the day with a Holy Eucharist presided by Reverend Nicole, Mothers Union Chaplain.

Elizabeth presented badges and certificates to Jeanette and Leonie, and a birthday card to Beth which everyone was able to sign.

We then celebrated with party hats, whistles and party food.

Beth then blew out her candles and cut her birthday cake.

It was a wonderful day of celebration for dedicated lives and service to our Lord Jesus.

In 1967 St Peter’s Mothers Union Branch was commenced by Mrs Eva Williams (wife of the then Rector) and it has continued ever since; but sadly, in October 2022 it went into recess; the last meeting being on 17th October at the home of Mrs Yvonne Bell (Secretary) and this was followed by a lovely lunch.

It was a happy/sad occasion – but we were aware of the limitations placed on us with age and health wise. We were grateful for the happy times we have shared together, and hope to keep in touch with each other within the coming year, and several members have elected to become Lone Members.

The attached photo was taken on that occasion, showing those present being myself (Judy Redden); Coral Galagher; Yvonne Bell; Kay Davies, and Kath Waddell. Sadly, our three 90 year old Members were unable to be present, being Noelle Freeman (Life Member and former Diocesan Mothers Union President); Betty Taylor and Naomi Gresham; as well as Margaret Dunn, who is now a resident at Booragul.

The branch having gone into recess, and not closed – leaves the door open for the opportunity on some future occasion for the branch to be active once again.

Judy Redden

Doris’s Story

I received the Order of Australia Medal for service to the community through a range of roles.

I have held executive positions over many years.

For the Waratahs Rugby Club in Newcastle, I was Secretary for the Junior Club, as well as Manager of one of the Junior teams, Co-edited and produced the Senior Club weekly newsletter for many years.

For Lions Clubs International. I have held the positions of Lions District 201N3 Cabinet Secretary – for Lions Zone 6 – Zone Chairman – been on the Committee for the District Youth of the Year project – Leader in District Youth of the Year camp.

For the Lions Club Jesmond – I have held the positions of President (twice), Treasurer, Youth of the Year Chairman, Membership Chairman, and have the honour of being the first female member of Jesmond Lions Club. Lions Clubs originally was a men only Service Club.

I have several Lions Clubs Awards, the most important being, a Melvin Jones fellow, (the highest Lions Club Award).

For Saint John the Baptist Anglican Church Lambton – I have been Treasurer, Parish Councillor, Co-Leader of “Lollypops Playgroup”, Synod Representative, Presentation Board Member, and Mothers Union Member.

Doris is a valued member of our Church Family, and is a true blessing to all who know her. Asked why she has spent a lifetime, been involved with community, and church – Doris stated “As a Christian, I believe we are put on this earth to serve each other”. 

Footnote: Doris travelled to Government House Sydney, with her son Keith, and Grandson Peter, where she was presented with her OAM Medal by the State Governor Margaret Beasley.

The Dumbrill Family have always being proud of their Mum, and doubly proud, to see her being rewarded for her lifetime of love and achievements. Doris now 89, continues to volunteer with Lions and Church projects wherever needed. This award is well earned. A true servant to all.

Daphney Whelan, Secretary | Lambton Mothers Union

Attached is the first newsletter from our new Overseas and Northern Outreach Coordinator – Mrs Wendy Mabey

Over 30 Mothers Union members attended the Diocesan Quiet Day at Lakes Anglican Church, Kanwal.

Before proceeding into the church there was a time of socialising and a welcoming cup of tea
which was greatly received by those who had travelled long distances.

Rev Nicole Baldwin, Diocesan Chaplain, then led us in Holy Communion before we entered into our Quiet Time.

The Theme was ‘The Sound of our Breathing’ with the scripture verse being Genesis 2.7 –
“Then the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground
and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.”

 We listened to a song – The Sound of Our Breathing – by Jason Gray before entering into our quiet time.

We then joined together for lunch and a time of sharing.

Thank you to the Mothers Union Branch at Lakes Anglican for the use of their premises and providing us with tea, coffee and lovely cakes and slices.