Derry and Raphoe Mothers’ Union’s new President, Kaye Nesbitt, was commissioned by the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Rt Rev Andrew Forster, on Friday evening (6th June 2025), at a service in St Eunan’s Cathedral in Raphoe. The service was led by the Dean of Raphoe, Very Rev Liz Fitzgerald, and during it, two other Diocesan M.U. officers were commissioned – Heather Houston as Diocesan Vice-President and Richard Cotter as Diocesan Treasurer.
A large congregation, comprising members of branches throughout the diocese, converged on Raphoe for the service, which incorporated All-Ireland Mothers’ Union Holy Communion. The procession of banners at the beginning and end of the service always makes for a colourful spectacle.
The sermon was preached by the Very Rev Bob Key, retired Dean of Jersey, who paid tribute to global Mothers’ Union, describing it as “one of the greatest evangelistic bodies on the face of the earth”.
Vocalist Andrew White joined the Cathedral Choir in leading the worship, accompanied by organist Renee Goudie.
The MU’s annual prize-giving also took place after the Service. The Livingston Trophy for Best Programme was awarded to Edenderry and Clanabogan’s M.U. branch and was accepted by Coral Pollock.
