Around 200 Mothersβ Union members gathered in the Nende region on Sunday to celebrate Mary Sumner Day. Among them were members of the Girlsβ Friendly Society (GFS) from Tinakula, whose presence offered a vibrant reminder of the importance of nurturing young women in the life of the Church.
Mary Sumner, founder of the Mothersβ Union, envisioned a movement where women could strengthen families through prayer, faith, and service. The GFS, established in the 19th century, shares this vision by focusing on the spiritual and moral growth of young girls, preparing them to become strong women and mothers in the future. The Girlsβ Friendly Society is a Christian fellowship for young girls, teaching values of faith, friendship, and service. It provides a safe space for mentorship, where older women guide younger members in prayer, leadership, and practical life skills.
Joining GFS helps young girls grow in faith formation by encouraging daily prayer, Bible study, and living out Christian values. It builds confidence through leadership development, equipping girls to take responsibility in church and community. It also teaches life skills such as respect, forgiveness, generosity, and resilience, while fostering community belonging through a supportive sisterhood where girls feel valued and empowered.
During the celebration at Lata Parish, GFS members from Tinakula joined the Mothersβ Union in worship, song, and fellowship. Their participation symbolized the continuity of Mary Sumnerβs vision β that the Church must invest in its young women to ensure a strong future. The Rt. Rev. Patteson Nibeo, Bishop of the Diocese of Temotu, reminded the congregation that βfaith must be lived out daily, not just worn in uniforms.β The GFS embodies this call by encouraging young girls to grow in Christ-like character and service.
Mrs. Petrina Nibeo, Mothersβ Union President in the Diocese of Temotu, issued a heartfelt appeal: βWe encourage our young girls to join the Girlsβ Friendly Society. It is here that you will learn to walk in faith, grow in confidence, and prepare to be good women and mothers who strengthen families and communities.β
Across the Anglican Communion, GFS has been a vital ministry for over a century, shaping generations of women who serve faithfully in church and society. In Temotu, its growth is crucial to ensuring that the next generation of women leaders is spiritually grounded and socially responsible.
The Girlsβ Friendly Society is more than a youth group β it is a movement of transformation. By joining, young girls in Temotu can embrace faith, friendship, and service, becoming pillars of strength in their families, parishes, and villages. As the highlight video of Mary Sumner Day shows, the joy and unity of GFS and Mothersβ Union together is a living testimony: when we invest in our girls today, we build strong women and mothers for tomorrow.