Diocesan News11 Jan 16

New Down and Dromore MU Diocesan President Commissioned

Bishop Harold Miller commissioned June Butler MBE (pictured) as Diocesan President of Down and Dromore Mothers’ Union at a service in her home parish of Saintfield on Sunday on 10 January.

Former MU Worldwide President Lady Christine Eames gave the address and Phyllis Grothier, All–Ireland President, also attended, having travelled from her home in Fenagh Co. Carlow.

June succeeds Joy Silcock, who held the position from January 2013. Joy’s hard work and leadership were acknowledged and applauded during the service and afterwards during the speeches in the hall.

The MU in Down and Dromore has 60 branches with some 2,200 members. Lady Eames spoke of the many challenges that will face the new Diocesan President in what has become a multi–faceted job in an organisation undergoing huge change.

June, however brings many skills and much experience to the task. She will be known to many as Diocesan Secretary of Down and Dromore and Connor, having previously held the post of Assistant Chief Electoral Officer for Northern Ireland. She has also served the MU in various capacities over the years.

In a short speech, June thanked the many people who had guided and encouraged her throughout her MU journey, not least her husband and daughters whose support has been invaluable.

June also said she hoped that MU members would be able to express the joy of being part of a worldwide organisation which reaches across boundaries of class, culture and wealth.

“I hope that there will be many smiles and even laughter as we move forward into the years ahead,” she said, finishing with a quote from Mother Teresa: “’Joy is prayer; joy is strength: joy is love; joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.’”

Please continue to support June with your prayers.

You can view a photo album from the event here