The following piece was first written for the June 21, 2026 pew sheet at St Augustine’s Anglican Church. I share it here again in the hope that it may continue to encourage and bless.
Today, Anglican churches across Australia join together in giving thanks to God for a remarkable milestone: the 150th anniversary of the Mothers' Union in Australia. Since its beginnings in 1876, the Mothers' Union has faithfully served Christ and his Church through its commitment to prayer, the strengthening of marriage and family life, and practical care for those in need. Over a century and a half, countless women and men have been blessed by its ministry, both within the Church and throughout the wider community. This anniversary provides an opportunity not only to celebrate the Mother's Union itself, but also to acknowledge the immeasurable contribution that women make to our lives. Whether in families, workplaces, schools, community organisations, or churches, women play vital roles in nurturing, leading, encouraging, serving and shaping the lives of others. Their gifts, wisdom, faithfulness and perseverance enrich our communities in countless ways. As we reflect on this today, it is fitting that we also give thanks for the women of St Augustine's. So much of our life and ministry depends upon their faithful service. Women contribute in visible and unseen ways through worship, pastoral care, hospitality, teaching, administration, prayer, leadership and service. Their gifts and ministries are not peripheral to the life of the Church; they are essential to it. This connects deeply with our current sermon series, 'Being One Body in Christ,' and with today's theme, 'United in Love, Prayer and Service.' The Apostle Paul reminds us that the Church is one body made up of many members, each with different gifts, yet all belonging to Christ and all contributing to the flourishing of the whole. When each person offers their gifts in service to God and neighbour, the Body of Christ is strengthened and built up in love. Our reading from Colossians 3:12–17 captures this vision beautifully. Paul calls God's people to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and above all, love. These are qualities that have long characterised the ministry of Mothers' Union and are qualities that we ourselves seek to embody as a church. As we celebrate 150 years of faithful service, may we also renew our commitment to being a community united in love, prayer and service for the glory of Christ and the blessing of others.
