COVID-19 and After: How we aim to survive and thrive in spite of the pandemic

Last year was a very challenging one, so however you were affected by COVID-19, we are going forward in 2021 with hope.

However, the year did little to dampen the spirits and community feeling of our members. The way you have responded to the challenges of 2020 was nothing short of inspirational. We all believe that is what we are called to do – to be a shining light of

God in dark times, to be there for our communities, to provide fellowship and love.

In March, when it emerged that there were significant difficulties ahead, we adapted and evolved, and it was you, in your kindness, who shared hope and gave confidence. You showed faith in action by producing countless items of PPE for frontline workers and community members. These efforts helped hold up the spread of COVID-19. They saved lives.

When scrub bags were needed so that staff could keep clothing safely in a bag, pictured above, to reduce the risk of infection at home, you stepped up. Hilary Castle, Diocesan President of York, said: ‘Luckily, because we use craft in many of our community projects, most of our members have sewing machines and equipment. My branch alone made more than 200 items, everything we produce is washed at 60 degrees and sealed in bags. Thanks to our existing networks, we could safely deliver scrubs and scrub bags to those in need.’

THE BEATING HEART OF THE MOVEMENT

You stepped up magnificently to meet the challenges of the pandemic, says Rachael Anderson. Rebuilding and thriving is now the name of the game

In Llandaff, members made knitted hearts for NHS hospital coronavirus wards. Visiting restrictions during COVID-19 meant that many patients and their families were separated, but matching pairs of knitted hearts (pictured above), given to the patient and their family, helped people feel more connected. The hearts were posted to each family, with a small greetings card. Having something to hold, knowing that their relative had the exact matching heart with them during the last hours of their life, was incredibly special and helped people to process their grief.

It has also been a time of what I can only describe as creative reflection. Mothers’ Union members in the Diocese of St Edmundsbury & Ipswich wrote a Book of Comfort - a collection of prayers and poems. Jeanette Appleton said: ‘This really has been a labour of love for our team, and we believe the words and images can provide calm and peace at what has been a difficult time for so many.’ The book is available to buy and as a free download: https:// bit.ly/3dC8Nln

“We know Mothers’ Union cannot afford to stand still

You work with some of the most vulnerable in society, and know the issue of isolation can affect us all during our lives. Members delivered doorstep gifts to those in need, (see above) When lockdown was enforced across the Britain and Ireland – we responded. In Clogher, Northern Ireland, members continued work to counter isolation. Irene Boyd, Diocesan President, Clogher, said: ‘We have been genuinely concerned about isolation and loneliness, even before COVID-19… Members are making sure they call those who are not online, supporting clergy in ringing around those in their parishes who need to connect.’

You also adjusted quickly and adeptly to communicating with each other in new ways. In St Albans, Kim Wilkinson, Diocesan President said: ‘We have been incredibly grateful for the power of communication in these difficult times. Finding ways to be able to keep all members in touch has been vital. We have actively embraced phone calls, WhatsApp groups and even Zoom meetings. More tech-savvy members have been able to use their skills to support others setting up equipment and downloading apps. The power of connecting cannot be underestimated and we’re continuing to do all that we can to ensure that people are not alone.’

We could fill this whole magazine celebrating the work of our members during 2020, and I have shared only a few of the incredible stories. What shining lights you have been in times of darkness, and how we thank you.

As we look to the direction we want to go in this year, we know Mothers’ Union cannot afford to stand still, we must keep well and carry on. What a motivated, devoted, passionate and faithful membership you are. In 2021 we are already rebuilding, growing, and thriving. We will carry out our work rebuilding hope and confidence in God’s name.