Greetings from our DP!
Dear Fellow Members
As I write this more of the Covid 19 lockdown restrictions have been relaxed. I’m sure, like me, you are looking forward to being able to give family members a hug, and also, I must admit I am looking forward to visiting the hairdresser!
I’m pleased to report that the emergency appeal at MSH has raised in excess of £720,000. This will be enough to see the organisation through to the end of the year, but one third of staff will have to be made redundant at that time in order to save capital.
At present it looks as though it will be the autumn before branch meetings will be able to take place again, and I do hope until then that folk will keep in contact with each other in whatever way they can, whether by phone, email, letter or doorstep visits.
Many of you have been busy sewing scrubs and facemasks and knitting Covid hearts as well as your usual knitting and sewing for neonatal wards, and I know that some of you have been busy delivering food parcels. All your efforts have been greatly appreciated.
We are not planning to have any Area Services this year. Instead, there is to be a Service of Thanksgiving in All Saint’s Parish, Antrim on Sunday 4 October at 3.30 pm. This will be for Trustees and Executive members only, but the service is to be streamed live on the internet, so you will be able to join in. The commissioning of Trustees and Executive will take place at this service.
All Ireland MU has launched a poetry competition. Do take a look at the new website under the BLOG section for rules and regulations. The theme is Covid Times and the closing date is 31 August. I’m sure we have many budding poets in our branches, who would like to enter.
It is hoped to hold All Ireland Council with reduced numbers in November. We are also hopeful that Connor Council can take place.
I think this is all the MU news at present. It only remains for me to wish you all a very pleasant summer and I look forward to joining with you in the not too distant future.
Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy in this time of uncertainty and distress. Sustain and support the anxious and fearful, and lift us all who are brought low; that we may rejoice in your comfort knowing that nothing can separate us from your love in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
With my love,
Sally x
