Christine Sharp, Manchester’s Diocesan President of Mothers’ Union, was commissioned last week as the new Provincial President of York. Archbishop Stephen Cottrell led the commissioning service, which took place in York Minster and was attended by Mothers’ Union members from across the Province of York and beyond. The Rt Revd Dr John Thomson was also commissioned by the Archbishop, as the Provincial Chaplain for York.
Christine, a former teacher, has been a member of Mothers’ Union for 16 years. She has served as a facilitator in churches and prisons, leading a variety of MU-related courses. Before taking on this provincial role, she was a diocesan trustee in Manchester and later became the trustee responsible for outreach programmes and projects - an area of work she sees as her calling.
Christine became Manchester’s Diocesan President in 2019, continuing her commitment to outreach, particularly in prison ministry and the Away From It All (AFIA) holiday scheme, which offers families facing stress or hardship the chance to enjoy a much-needed break. She also served as a Safeguarding contact and remains actively involved in safeguarding at both the benefice and diocesan levels.
As Provincial President, Christine will lead Mothers’ Union initiatives across Manchester in the areas of domestic abuse awareness, modern slavery, and AFIA. She will also chair the national MU Modern Slavery and Prisons steering groups.
Christine said:
“It is a real honour to be entrusted with the role of Mothers’ Union Provincial President for York Province. I am inspired by this opportunity to continue serving, and as I step into this responsibility, I aim to share the wonderful vision and work of Mothers’ Union wherever I go. I believe that we are stronger together. Together, we can achieve so much — and through faith, compassion, and unity of purpose, we can uplift not only each other but also the most vulnerable in society.”
Archbishop Stephen said:
“It is a joy and a privilege to commission Christine as the new Provincial President of the Mothers’ Union for York Province and to commission John as Provincial Chaplain. I give thanks for their dedication and for the life-changing work of the Mothers’ Union across this Province and beyond. Through prayer, advocacy and compassion, the Mothers’ Union continues to bear witness to God’s love at the heart of family and community life”.
Mothers’ Union is an international Christian organisation with over four million members worldwide, committed to promoting stable family life, nurturing faith, and working towards a society where everyone can thrive. Through practical projects, advocacy, and prayer, Mothers’ Union continues to support families and communities across the globe to end poverty, injustice and violence.
Mothers’ Union in the Province of York plays a leading role in supporting families and strengthening communities across northern England. As part of a global Christian movement, the Province brings together thousands of members from different dioceses, united in their mission to support families and communities, advocate for social justice, and share God’s love through practical outreach and prayer. With a strong presence in both urban and rural areas, the Mothers’ Union in York Province is a powerful voice for compassion, equality, and faith in action, making a meaningful difference in everyday lives.