In the Anglican diocese of Matabeleland, the Mother's Union uses the fine local Zimbabwe linen to make "small linens", hand sewn for Church use. In Britain these linens, which are used at the altar during Holy Communion, are available only by post through Matabeleland Church Linens.
Throughout Southern Africa, and especially in Zimbabwe, the Mothers' Union is a significant part of the Church. With branches in many town and village parishes, it carries out a wide variety of projects in support of the Church's mission to the whole community. Projects include care for victims of HIV/AIDS, developing self-help projects for women, schemes for health education, care of the elderly and work amongst girls and teenagers.
Matabeleland Church Linens are sold at very favourable prices and do not attract VAT. Because we operate solely for the Church in Matabeleland, with no paid staff in Britain, all profits go straight to strengthen the work of the Church.
Matabeleland covers a vast area of Zimbabwe whose sparse, mainly rural population live on little income and are particularly hit by the present financial and political situation in their troubled country. At a time when many clergy and other Church and community leaders have had to leave the country, a lay-led movement such as the Mother's Union is doubly important.
For further details and an order form, please contact Canon Hugh Marshall on 01869 337761 or email matabelelinens@gmail.com