Worldwide president's flying visit to Swansea for Mothers' Union celebrations

The worldwide president of the Mothers' Union made a flying visit to Swansea on Friday 10 April, as part of a tour of Welsh dioceses ahead of the Church in Wales Governing Body meeting in Llandudno.

Kathleen Snow, elected to the role for 2025–2027 and a Mothers' Union member from Canada, chairs the organisation's Board of Trustees and represents the movement globally. Her visit brought members together from across the diocese for an expanded monthly Eucharist at Swansea Minster.

She was welcomed with bells - rung by a team that included several MU members - and had a go herself before joining a morning that included branch and diocesan project displays, homemade cakes and plenty of opportunity to talk. Ryan Thomas played the organ. The Minster's rector, office and café team helped make the occasion possible.

"It is wonderful to have the chance to come and hear Kathleen speak," said Gill Knight, Diocesan Mothers' Union President, "linking us with the worldwide work of the organisation and the diverse experiences of its members. The visit clearly made its mark: one member left and promptly booked for the annual UK gathering in London."

The occasion did not end indoors. In keeping with the Mothers' Union's 150th anniversary challenge, Kathleen is completing 15 sponsored 10K runs as she travels the world. Swansea's contribution took her along the seafront, torch in hand, accompanied by Nova John, Ministry Area Administrator for Llwchwr. "We reckon this may have had the best views," said Gill, "even if the rain did fall."