Members of Mothers’ Union from across North West Wales gathered at Bangor Cathedral on Sunday 9 August to celebrate the organisation’s 150th anniversary. 

The service was held on Mary Sumner Day, when Mothers' Union members around the world remember and celebrate the organisation's founder, Mary Sumner. 

During the service, the Diocese of Bangor Mothers’ Union was admitted to the Community of the Cross of Nails, a worldwide Christian network of churches, charities, chaplaincies and schools committed to peacebuilding and reconciliation. 

The Community of the Cross of Nails grew out of Coventry Cathedral’s commitment to forgiveness and reconciliation following the destruction of the cathedral during the Second World War. Its members work together to heal the wounds of history, learn to live with difference and build a culture of justice and peace. 

The Mothers’ Union’s central charity joined the Community of the Cross of Nails in 2018. The admission of the Diocese of Bangor Mothers’ Union reflects the focus on peace and reconciliation that has shaped its anniversary celebrations in Wales.

Sue Rivers, President of Mothers’ Union in Wales, said, 'The Cross of Nails is a powerful and inspirational symbol of worldwide peace and forgiveness, and I am delighted that the Diocese of Bangor Mothers’ Union has been admitted to this important community.'

The Cross of Nails was presented during the service by Canon Kate Massey of Coventry Cathedral, who was the guest preacher. It will be placed in the Cathedral, where visitors will be invited to spend time praying for peace and reconciliation. 

The Very Revd Dr Manon Ceridwen James, Dean of Bangor Cathedral and Bishop-elect of Bangor, said, 'The Mothers’ Union has spent 150 years turning faith into practical care for families and communities. Joining the Community of the Cross of Nails is a natural expression of that commitment. This cross will be a visible reminder of our shared calling to pray for peace, work for reconciliation and bring healing where there is division.'

Mothers’ Union was founded in 1876 by Mary Sumner, the wife of a parish priest in Hampshire. She brought women together to support one another in their roles as mothers and to strengthen family life through prayer, fellowship and practical action. 

Mothers’ Union is a worldwide Christian movement working with people of all faiths and backgrounds to strengthen families and communities. It has members in more than 80 countries.

The celebration in Bangor is one of a series of events taking place throughout 2026 to mark the 150th anniversary of Mothers’ Union. In June, more than 1,500 members, church leaders, supporters and partners gathered at St Paul’s Cathedral in London for a special anniversary service celebrating 150 years of faith, service and transformation as reported in Anglican News.

From 30 September to 3 October, Mothers’ Union members from around the world will gather in Durban, South Africa, for the organisation’s 150th Anniversary Worldwide Gathering. The event will celebrate the movement’s global fellowship and explore its work in communities and its future direction. More information about the gathering is available on the Mothers’ Union website.

For more information: 

Diocese of Bangor
Mothers’ Union
Community of the Cross of Nails