The theme over-arching all Mothers’ Union work in 2010, across the 78 countries in which it operates, is Relationship Not Rules. We are moving into a new triennial in the development of our activities, and many members will be taking new leadership roles in their local Mothers’ Union groups and quite possibly in their church communities.
The theme Relationship not Rules embraces this turning point in roles, experience and gifts, and gives us an opportunity to celebrate the relationships we have, and are continuing, to build. By focusing on our diverse relationships rather than the rules with which our societies are governed and structured, we are making a clear statement about how we value relationships in the Mothers’ Union.
Mothers’ Union’s vision is to see a world where God’s love is shown through loving, respectful, and flourishing relationships. To do this, we have a set of beliefs based on the value of relationships, and the example Jesus set us in living out our faith through our relationships. More background information about the theme is available to Mothers’ Union members on the central website: Theme for 2010
There is a wealth of material available by following that link, but since this theme has significance for everyone and should have uses outside Mothers’ Union groups, some of the material is available here. Click on the links to download information and inspiration for prayer, small group work, bible study and other activities in your family and community. (We’ve used the file name RnotR2010 as shorthand for Relationships Not Rules in 2010.
RnotR2010-IntroductoryRationale An introduction to the theme RelationshipsNotRules and the material available for you to use.
RnotR2010-Blessings_Challenges_Chart A simple sheet for individuals to use to reflect on the relationships in their lives, the challenges and blessings they are bringing. A few questions will help you realise that you don’t have to face the challenges alone, and may identify where you can seek help and support. We were designed for relationship, not for acting alone.
RnotR2010-GroupMeditation_John15 A group meditation centred around a shared meal or refreshments and based on a study of Jesus’ command to love each other.
RnotR2010-BibleStudy_John8 A Bible study suitable for individuals or groups, based on Jesus’ words and actions when a group of Pharisees brought a woman to him who had been caught in adultery.
RnotR2010_Prayers A large selection of prayers and reflections relating to the theme that can be used in worship or private prayer.
RnotR2010- RulesandLawsinBible_and_Mothers’_ Union Material that makes a great resource for a local group of Mothers’ Union members to explore both the Bible and the way they approach their membership of Mothers’ Union.
RnotR2010_service – a full order of service with liturgy and readings designed to help people reflect on their relationships in the light of Biblical teaching.
[...] stuff to get us thinking about our relationships, as this years theme for Mothers’ Union is “Relationships Not Rules”. Much of the material would be really good for all sorts of home, prayer and Bible study groups, as [...]