Global Anglican mission organisation Mother’s Union has elected its first ever worldwide president from outside the UK.
Sheran Harper, who was born in the UK but now lives in Guyana, will take over the post from Lynne Tembey at the start of 2019.
“I am delighted to accept the role of worldwide president for the new triennium,” she said. “I feel very excited and privileged and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our members who voted to make this dream a reality.”
Mother’s Union, founded 142-years-old, has four million members in 84 countries. The organisation supports families through such initiatives as parenting, literacy and community development programs as well as via advocacy work and prayer.
Harper, who joined the organisation 17 years ago, said Mother’s Union remains as “relevant today as it was 142 years ago as the call to support families globally is now even greater”.
“We are working alongside governments and other organisations in tackling issues which affect families wherever they are. In remote areas, where there is no access to social services, it is often Mothers’ Union that is leading the way.”