From 14th to 16th June 2021, All Ireland Mother’s Union president June Butler walked 21km in the Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross as part of her “21 in 21” fundraising project. She is walking 21kms in each diocese in the country to raise money for the MU Mums in May fund which provides grants to support ongoing projects. 

June was joined by the Diocesan President of the MU in Cork, Cloyne and Ross, Hilary Dring, and together they started the first of three walks in Youghal at St Mary’s Collegiate Church on Wednesday 14th June. They were joined there by Jean and Helen from the local branch and by Canon Andrew Orr, who also led the service which was held before the walk. 

On Thursday, June and Hilary started their second walk at St Peter’s Church, Carrigrohane, where Rev. Robert Ferris sent them on their way with prayers. Together with Patsy Devoy (All Ireland VP), Pam Wood and Deirdre Whitley (Diocesan Trustee) they walked along the River Lee, over the “Shakey” Daly’s Bridge and via UCC into the City Centre, where they finished their walk at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral. Rev. Ted Ardis received them with prayers and the group also took a tour of the cathedral and its organ. 

The last walk in the Diocese took place on Friday 16th June in Doneraile, where branch leader Ruth Sherlock received June and Hilary. Rev. Meurig Wiliams took the service at St Mary’s Church and sent two groups of walkers on their way; those who undertook a shorter walk in Doneraile Park, and a group of seven ladies, including June and Hilary, who took the path around the perimeter of the park. 

At the end of the walk they returned to St Mary’s Church and June was presented with a book about Doneraile Park by the Branch and Hilary gave her a bag of food items, all originating from Co. Cork with which to remember her walks in the Diocese.

You can read June Butler’s full reports here.