I joined the MU in 1990 and since that time have become more and more involved as I realise the tremendous work that the MU does in supporting families. I am now Diocesan President and my aim is to continue to build on the foundations that Mary Sumner set 130 years ago and which are still so relevant today.

As a qualified social worker families are an important part of my working and church life. I went to a MU meeting on caring for families and was inspired to join MU. When I moved to Chester diocese being in the MU gave me a ready made family for fellowship.

I originally joined MU because I was quite simply 'blown away' by the huge range of practical, prayer based projects undertaken. I still want to help drive this forward.

I am the finance Unit co-ordinator.

I joined the MU in 1972 and soon found out what a wonderful organisation it was. I am particularly interested in overseas work, and I have met members in many countries, and seen at firsthand the work that the MU are involved in. As a member of the MU wherever you go in the world you are met with friendship and fellowship.

It was in 1993 that I became a member of the MU. If I'd known about their wonderful work in the community locally and world wide I would have joined much sooner. MU has given me opportunities to serve God in exciting ways such as being a part of the development worker management team and through the marketing unit.

I joined the MU when I had a young family and I enjoyed the fellowship and support I received. I have stayed in the MU because I became aware of the great work the MU does both at a local level and around the world. I have just become The Editor of The Chester Magazine MU Matters.

I joined the MU when my children were young and my husband's job brought us to a new area. We were miles from any family and I felt that the people at church would help me to enjoy being in my new surroundings. So it proved. I learnt how kind and helpful MU members can be to a family trying to adapt to a new life.

I found the past three years as Diocesan President both enjoyable and a challenge. As I learn more about Mothers' Union projects at home and abroad, I want to 'gossip' MU to everyone I meet. Being a Trustee for the next triennial will enable me to utilise the skills and knowledge I have gained to support and promote the MU in Chester Diocese.

Michael writes: I have been the Diocesan Chaplain for the MU since 2002, and I have enjoyed every aspect of that chaplaincy work. I look after two parishes, one of which has an MU branch. As I travel around the diocese, I am always impressed by the energy, enthusiasm and faith of MU members, whatever the size or age of the branch. It is a great inspiration to know that the MU in this land reaches out to embrace 3.6 million members in 75 countries throughout the world. And all committed to making a difference to people's lives: in small ways, in big ways, by prayer, by projects - but making a difference that matters.

Although I could have joined MU earlier I wanted to wait until I was a mother. Joining the MU was one of the highlights of going through the process of becoming a family when we adopted our eldest child, then aged seven. Being a mother and having a family was so important to me. It is the MU that has been there with friendship and fellowship over the years.

I am the Diocesan Secretary for Chester.

I am the Assistant Diocesan Secretary for Chester.

I am the Diocesan Development Worker for Family Life and Social Concern. In particular, my work focuses around the areas of Baptism, Marriage, Parenting, Ageing and Older People and Bereavement. You can read more about what I do, and experience a day in my life, on the Development Worker page.