National Sisterhood

The Brotherhood movement began in 1874, by John Blackman realising that the local men needed something that was NOT a church service, so he started Men's meetings which were brief, bright and brotherly. Called "Pleasant Sunday Afternoons" P.S.A as they were known. Of course the ladies not to be outdone, and knowing a good thing when they saw it, started The Sisterhood in 1893. But because of women's work within the family, the meetings were held in the evenings and eventually in the afternoons, although a meeting can be held at any time and on any day. The Brotherhood and Sisterhood inc. as it is now named, is inter-denominational. Everyone is welcome, our meetings are bright and happy, the message is brief, to the point and one which can be understood especially remembering that we try to witness to the un-churched. Encouraging ladies to attend any kind of meeting in these days is very difficult, but the aim of the movement is:-
(1)   To win people for Jesus Christ
(2)   To give ourselves to the faith and service  of Christian brotherhood and sisterhood.
(3)   To promote the practical expression of religion.
(4)   To encourage the exercise of Christian citizenship and social responsibility.
(5)   To promote the establishment of brotherhood and sisterhood and kindred societies and unite them in the fellowship of the movement.

The Sisterhood hold a "Spring Council"usually in March/April. These are very happy times when we meet friends from many parts of the country, have discussions on the issues of the day and the joy of worshipping together.
The Movement also hold a "National Conference" of all the members in September, when the National Brotherhood and Sisterhood President for the coming year is installed. Services of worship are held, business meetings carried out but there is also a time of great fun and laughter, especially with the Island members.All churches have different ways of doing things, yet are united in Christ and His service.
Donations are made twice a year from general funds to local charities. The Island Hospice, the Caravan Bus and many others have been helped over the years by this fund.
Sandown Sisterhood meet every Friday from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, speakers are very interesting,from "Leprosy Mission", S.A.S.R.A (Forces Scripture Readers)and from "Open Doors"(Persecuted Church). We also have a members meeting when we all bring something to read, a poem or funny stories of true events. And of course we always close with tea and cakes.
We celebrated the Society's 95th anniversary in May 2005 and we Praise God for all the Love He has bestowed upon us and still does. He has work for us to do, age is no barrier, we are needed to serve Him even when we think we are "Past It".  We do invite ALL ladies and Gentlemen to join us any Friday (see the events calendar) you will be made most welcome.