Refresh Magazine Issue 15 Spring 2026

Spring 2026 Issue 15

The magazine of the Congregational Federation

Jesus said, ‘I am the resurrection and the life.’

REFLECTIONS ON CHAPLAINCY

UGANDA: YOUTH ADVENTURE by Bretherton CC

by Newark Congregational Church

PAGES 8-9

PAGES 18-19

PAGES 30-31

by Caroline Stott

INCLUSIVE PILGRIMAGE

“…looking forward to being refreshed by your company.

God’s peace be with all of you” (Romans 15:33, The Message)

Contents 3

General Secretary

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Letters, emails and chat

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Federation News

8 President Caroline Stott on Chaplaincy 10 Local Church News: Knitted Bible and Sherston CC 12 Myanmar Mission

by R ev Elvis SaDo 13 Easter ideas 14 Greenbelt report

by Nigel Lindsay 16 CWM Sunday resources

by Anna Bradley 18 Bretherton Youth Trip to Uganda 20 Lollards’ Tower visit

by Karen Haden 22 Local evangelism

by Beverley Bedford 24 LEARNING: Trying something new!

by Catherine Booton 27 Testimony

by Harry Flynn 28 TECH: QR Codes: What are they good for?

by Neil Chappell 30 PILGRIMAGE: Inclusive Church walk from Navenby to Lincoln

by Mark Taylor 32 OVERSEAS: Operation Agri and daily bread

by Alexandra Lear 34 Easyfundraising

by Becky Coleman

Hello and welcome to the spring issue!

I wonder what signs of life have kept faith going for you through the past grey winter months? Perhaps you have spent time in the wilderness of Lenten days, but with the hope of an Easter morning that will always come. Our faith and hope are in Jesus’ act of sacrificial love via the bloodied cross, his broken body raised to a real resurrected eternal body. The broken bread we use can prompt us to remember others who do not have enough bread, and perhaps no hope and faith.

Where people are pushed to these margins some of our Congregationalists have found mission work in bringing both bread and belief. See the Bretherton Youth trip to Uganda (page 18) and the work of Operation Agri (page 32) as well as the challenging children’s mission work in Myanmar (page 12). Christian Aid fundraising has gone well (page 6) and they also suggest some fun Lent and Easter ideas for churches (page 13).

Easter is a great opportunity to cross the secular/faith gap with hopeful conversations about social justice and truth. The article on local evangelism (page 22) might prompt some thoughts as well as Catherine Booton’s encouragement to try something new (page 24). How about some street evangelism? Look what happened to Harry Flynn when he met Pastor Jaesub (page 27)! There will be more encouragement at Assembly in May (page 7) and I hope to see you there.

Louisa Lockwood, Editor Refresh@congregational.org.uk

35 Prayer Diary from March to June TO ORDER REFRESH: There are three issues of Refresh each year, available on annual subscription at £36 incl. p&p and the Yearbook.

Email: admin@congregational.org.uk or tel: 0115 9111460 for details.

Refresh Magazine, ISSN 2634-2987, is published by: The Congregational Federation, Congregational Centre, 8 Castle Gate, Nottingham NG1 7AS Registered charity 264839 www.congregational.org.uk www.theresourcehub.co.uk

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Cover photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash.

Design and print: Verité CM Ltd. www.veritecm.com.

All articles are copyright ©Refresh Magazine.

Please contact the Editor if you would like permission to reproduce any content.

All Bible quotes are from either the NLT or NIV unless otherwise stated.

This magazine is printed on paper from a sustainable source.

From the General Secretary Welcome to the spring Refresh!

Hurray for springtime! I hope this edition of Refresh finds you well and encouraged.

It is great to be back in work. In January and February, I took a sabbatical to focus on my family and take rest for myself. I’d never had a sabbatical before and it wasn’t planned and so it was a shock to the system but God was gracious and it was a joy to be still in his presence and not feel the pressure. I have invested most of the time supporting Poppy to get back into school which I’m thankful has been successful.

For Christmas, one of my cousins bought me the new book by Charlie Mackesy called Always Remember. Inside she wrote, “Always remember just how much you mean to everyone and what a difference you make to everyone’s lives.”

Sometimes we need that important reminder so read that message for yourself and remember your worth as a child of God, precious and loved by Him always, no matter what situations we find ourselves in.

This verse from Romans has been a wonderful comfort, “Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.” (Romans 12:12 NLT) I have also read Sensible Shoes by Sharon Brown and it was only halfway through that I realised Sharon is married to Jack Brown, the Minister of Gillfillan in Dundee, which made the book even more special. One of the characters is also on a forced sabbatical and so my friend had recommended it. It has allowed me to rest in God’s love and explore new ways of connection including using a labyrinth which I recommend. Here is a quote from the book that has helped because it’s really not been easy for me not to be in work.

“It’s a special work of grace when God helps us shift from being the giver to the receiver.”

John Clements at the Old Meeting House also sent me Cliff and Monica Hill’s new

book, Seeing the hand of God, which has been such a blessing and encouragement.

I did the 40-day sugar fast led online

by Wendy Speake which has been difficult this year but always reminds me to seek God first in all matters. What do you reach for first in the morning? For me, it’s my phone when really it should be my Bible.

Abbih Oloyede from City Chapel starts the week with an online prayer meeting on Mondays at 6am if this would help you.

A new Christian has joined the Bible Study I attend on a Tuesday and I have enjoyed her extraordinary testimony. I am sure you have heard about the quiet revival but when you encounter it, it is exciting and challenging. We all need to be ready to talk to others about the Bible. Are you ready? What could you or your church do to help?

Andrew Ollerton’s new book is God’s Book – an honest look at tough topics – which may help us grapple with difficult questions. There is the All for Jesus, Jesus for All course, its materials are available online and through the office and it has been wonderful to see so many churches running it.

Finally, you could get involved in the Tyndale 500 anniversary. Will you be part of walking 500 miles and sharing the Bible with those you meet or contact? I pray you feel the urgency to share the good news of Jesus. We will be producing a special book for the event and in the meantime Hope Together have beautiful printed versions of John’s Gospel and are encouraging you to distribute them in your community.

Thank you for all your support and messages and especially to my staff who have covered in different ways. I can’t wait to get back to work full time and continue to walk humbly with God. God bless you, Yvonne

The cover of Sensible Shoes by Sharon Brown.

A labyrinth to walk around to reflect and to pray.

A drawing from the Charlie Mackesy book, Always Remember.

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Credit: Le Vu, Unsplash

LETTERS

Letters, emails and other chat Refresh feedback Great job on the magazine !!!

Elisabeth Sweeney-Smith I’ve just received the Refresh, Winter 2025, and after a brief glance, I felt compelled to express my gratitude for your editorial.

The magazine is filled with invaluable information, engaging activities, and exciting news. Thank you for your inspiring work!

Kind regards, Thandar Tun Editor response: Thank you! I have to share that thanks as Refresh is a team effort with a lot of work put in by Yvonne Campbell and Linda Cooke and all the regular contributors that keep it relevant.

To ‘Rev’ or not to ‘Rev’ I read Jim Lyons’ article in the latest winter edition of Refresh and sent a reply.

Jim wrote back, saying that it would be good to publish my email in Refresh as part of a healthy discussion. The email I sent is below.

God Bless, Justin Lunniss I appreciate your reflections on the priesthood of all believers and wholeheartedly agree with its centrality to our shared faith. I also understand the concerns you’ve raised. If I may, I’d like to share where I come from on this – as someone who wears a clerical collar and uses the title ‘Reverend.’

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In many Congregational settings, ministers are still referred to as ‘Reverend.’

In my view, this is not a hierarchical designation, but rather a mark of respect for the office – one that affirms, rather than contradicts, the doctrine of the priesthood of all believers. That doctrine is foundational to Congregationalism.

It affirms that all Christians have direct access to God through Christ and share a mutual responsibility to minister to one another. It explicitly rejects the notion of a separate, elevated priestly class acting as mediators between God and the laity.

Within this framework, the minister’s role is defined by function, not status.

Congregational ministers are called by the church to serve in specific capacities – preaching, teaching, and pastoral care.

They are servants of the congregation, exercising a delegated authority rooted in calling and competence, not spiritual superiority.

The title ‘Reverend,’ meaning ‘worthy of respect,’ is used across many denominations as a courtesy – much like calling a judge ‘the Honourable.’

It acknowledges the dedication and responsibility of the role, without implying a unique spiritual standing. In practice, ministers are often addressed simply as Pastor, Minister, or by their first name, depending on local custom and personal preference. In summary, I see the use of Reverend as a tradition of respect – not a contradiction of our shared theology, but a reflection of it. It honours the calling without elevating the individual above the community of believers.

Warm regards, Justin Lunniss

LETTERS

Magazine font query I was delighted to receive my copy of the magazine and found it had interesting and helpful articles. Thank you so much for your work.

While generally the layout is fine, I hope it will not offend if I criticize the font chosen for the articles. It is a sans font and I am not sure of the size, but it certainly is not more than 11pt. Sans fonts are particularly difficult to read if you have a degree of sight loss such as macular degeneration (common among many these days). It is also made harder on a blue or green tinted paper (having said that, the Gower page is beautiful).

Some years ago I consulted a good friend who was General Secretary of Torch Trust for the Blind (a Christian organisation based in Market Harborough). He recommended a sans serif font so it offers the helpfulness of serifs together with the cleaner look of sans. I use Trebuchet for text on paper, screen, and PowerPoint presentations.

The leading (line spacing) set in Refresh is very good. Of course, word numbers are affected by the size and style of the font.

While my comments are personal, they are written by a former printer who suffers from Macular Dystrophy and the advice I have passed on comes from a professional source.

So, a really big thank you from me.

Great edition!

Rev Barry Osborne

Editor response: Thank you for the prompt Barry, with the increased print run we also want Refresh to be as readable as possible! The designers have tested a few fonts and we have decided to trial a font called Inclusive for this issue.

Please do let us know what you think, email Refresh@congregational.org.uk.

Magazine print run At the November 2025 Council Meeting, the magazine was discussed and the decision was made to increase from one copy per church to one copy per member.

These will still be distributed through the church network.

Look out for your copies and please continue to pass them on. Contact Linda Cooke at linda.cooke@ congregational.org.uk if you have any queries.

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FEDERATION NEWS

SPREE Youth Festival

Malawi Appeal

SPREE South West is a long-running Christian youth festival that offers a space for young people aged from 8 to 17 to learn more about faith.

This year the dates are 26 to 28 June 2026 and the location is the Westpoint Showground, Exeter, EX5 1DJ. There are multiple venues for all ages and many free activities on site.

To find out more and to join a Congregational Federation group, email luzia.watt@congregational.org.uk.

First of all, we are very pleased to report that we have now sent £3,470.45 to Christian Aid from our churches that have responded so generously to the Malawi Appeal. We are beyond happy with this response, thank you to everyone who fundraised and donated.

We have set a date of Monday 23 March, 7pm – 7.30pm for a CF Christian Aid prayer event to close our Malawi Appeal and launch our new project. Please do join us at this event.

IN TOUCH publications To keep you informed, regular editions of In Touch and In Touch with Nature are available online at www.congregational.org.uk/in-touch. Please do share these publications with your church members.

CONGREGATIONAL FEDERATION OPPORTUNITIES The following churches are seeking ministers/pastors at the present time. If you are interested in receiving more information you must firstly contact the Congregational Federation via our Nottingham Office.

Full time: Haverhill (Eastern); Southwick Christian Community Church (South East); Parkhead (Scotland).

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Part-time: North Nibley (South West Midlands); Shillington (East Midlands); Ardrossan E.U. Congregational Church (Scotland); Springhead (Oldham).

Non-stipendiary: Penrhys, Llanfair Uniting Church, (Wales).

FEDERATION NEWS

National Assembly weekend 2026 Friday 8 to Sunday 10 May, Sheffield We would like to invite you to the 2026 National Assembly, to be hosted by the North East Area of the Congregational Federation. The Assembly will take place on Saturday 9 May 2026. If you are unable to get to Sheffield, you will be able to follow online with our live stream. It will be a time of worship and celebration as well as presentations on the work of the Congregational Federation, and the chance to welcome Rob Hunter as CF President for 2026/27.

Luzia Watt, Church Support Worker, will host a Children and Youth Assembly so please encourage any children and young people to attend. (See the registration form on the website.)

Yvonne Campbell and Elisabeth Sweeney-Smith Luzia Watt Jim Lyon

Friday 8 May Our weekend starts on Friday afternoon at Hillsborough Tabernacle with Pastors Jonathan & Abbiih Oloyede sharing about initiatives to encourage ministers. On Friday evening, there will be a Folk Night at Tapton Hill Church. LOCATION: Tapton Hill Congregational Church, Tapton Hill Road, Crosspool, Sheffield, S10 5GB, www.taptonchurch.com.

Saturday 9 May Saturday morning and afternoon is our National Assembly. LOCATION: The Hope Centre, Bernard Road, Sheffield, S2 5BQ, www.thehopecentre.co.uk.

On Saturday evening there will be a fun filled social evening at Hillsborough Tabernacle Church including a pie & peas supper with a variety of professional acts compared by Robert Waddington (you have been warned! lol!).

Please complete numbers and your lunch order with dietary requirements on the booking form and get it back to us by Friday 10 April 2026. For details and links to the booking forms, go to www. congregational.org.uk/national-assembly/ national-assembly-2026.

Sunday 10 May Morning worship led by Rob Hunter at Hillsborough Tabernacle CC. LOCATION: Hillsborough Tabernacle Congregational Church, Proctor Place, Middlewood Road, Hillsborough, Sheffield, S9 4HF, www. hillsboroughtabernacle.blogspot.com.

At the heart of Congregationalism is fellowship. Come and be with others from Congregational churches across Great Britain. Come in love, come in joy, come in peace.

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CHAPLAINCY

Rooted, Supported, and Nourished Reflections on chaplaincy

By Caroline Stott, President, Congregational Federation

Foundations of wise chaplaincy ‘Essentials for wise chaplaincy – such as compassion, hope, and reverence for human dignity – require deep roots and ongoing nourishment.’ These were the words of David Ford at the CHCC conference in 2016.

These qualities form the bedrock of chaplaincy, shaping the way we engage with those in our care and reminding us of the profound responsibility we hold.

Reflections on chaplaincy work As you may already know, my ministry is as a healthcare chaplain at Royal Devon University Hospital. I feel it is important to share some reflections on chaplaincy, especially considering that many within the Federation serve as chaplains, often quietly and without much recognition. I have placed David Ford’s thought at the

start of this piece because it prompts me to question whether we chaplains are as deeply rooted as we ought to be.

Chaplaincy practice in healthcare Healthcare chaplains typically visit patients who have requested a visit or who have been referred by the ward or their church.

In my role, I am the lead chaplain for learning difficulties and participate in a weekly multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting with the palliative care team. I am also involved in a project initiated at Royal Devon University Hospital, which aspires to become an academic paper in the future. This project involves trialling wellbeing visits for every patient who has been in hospital for over 21 days. As a result, patients who might never have asked to see a chaplain are discovering the benefits of such visits – finding support and attentive listening from a staff member not involved in their medical care.

Experiencing God’s guidance Wednesdays, though unpredictable, have become a time and place where I feel truly engaged in God’s work throughout the day.

I dedicate the day to the Lord, asking Him to lead me to those who need my presence and to provide the words I should say. Each time I go to the hospital, I am amazed by how God works through me in these encounters.

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CHAPLAINCY Support and challenges in chaplaincy I consider myself fortunate to work with a team of chaplains who are incredibly supportive. Understandably, some of the situations we are called to support can be both traumatic and tragic. Our office often serves as a space to unwind and leave the weight of the day behind.

In conversations with other chaplains in the Federation, I have come to realise how fortunate I am to have the backing of a supportive team. Others may not have this support or may find it difficult to share certain experiences in their workplaces.

Reflecting on rootedness and nourishment I have been reflecting on the quote at the beginning of this article, considering my own rootedness. While I am firmly grounded within my team, I wonder whether I have that same depth of rootedness within a church family. Over the past year, much of my time has been spent travelling to different churches,

and preaching and leading Messy Church sessions.

I have not had the opportunity to settle with a church family, to sit, listen, and worship, or to experience that continuous nourishment. I suspect that many of us, who spend most Sundays preaching and balancing chaplaincy with church responsibilities, may also struggle to find time for regular spiritual nourishment.

Building connections among chaplains Perhaps, as chaplains, we could consider meeting together in the coming year to connect and support one another. We might organise a time of worship and sharing – perhaps via Zoom or at the assembly. It would not require a significant commitment, but simply knowing who we are would enable us to provide mutual support.

Blessings to you all.

Rev Caroline Stott My email is revcstott@gmail.com and I am on the phone on 07966 071514, so please do contact me and tell me your story.

Caroline’s artistic skills were put to good use in this self-portrait

SPRINGHEAD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH ADVERT FOR NEW MINISTER Applications are invited for the position of minister at Springhead Congregational Church, Oldham. Working hours are negotiable as we strongly believe that the right person for the role is more important than the number of hours required.

This is a great and exciting opportunity to lead, encourage and grow an established and supportive congregation and to be still more relevant to the changing needs of the local community.

The minister will be part of the diaconate and be willing to lead worship and meetings attending to the business of the church as well as coordinating pastoral care.

Unfortunately, we are not able to provide accommodation but an additional 20% of the stipend (pro rata) will be included as housing allowance.

In the first instance, for more details, please send a CV and covering letter to Yvonne Campbell, the General Secretary of the Congregational Federation.

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LOCAL CHURCH NEWS

Knitted Bible report

By Linda Cooke, Property and Church Support Worker at Congregational Federation From left: Yvonne Campbell with The Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Patience Ifediora, her chaplain, Pastor Idy Samuel and Linda Cooke at the official opening on 19 November 2025.

Michael and Lillian Ellaby from Kingswood, Bristol visiting the exhibition.

A knitted Bible scene showing Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey.

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What a pleasure and delight it was to host the Knitted Bible Exhibition at Cleaves Conference Centre at the Congregational Federation Offices, Nottingham from 19 November through until 6 December 2025.

The Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Patience Ifediora, officially opened the exhibition by cutting a ribbon on 19 November, accompanied by her chaplain, Pastor Idy Samuel. The Major Oak Chorus came and delighted us with a performance of songs and carols which went down extremely well.

During the exhibition, teams came along and co-hosted with us, a different one for each day, these included some from our Congregational Churches, as well as local Knit and Natter groups and other church contacts. We welcomed visitors from many of our Congregational Churches, including Bristol, Yelvertoft, Markfield and Newark, as well as friends and families from our more local churches and communities.

The exhibition, on loan to us from URC Hartlepool, brings to life the Bible stories that we know so well

(or not so well!) such as Joseph and his brothers, Moses in the Bullrushes, The Wedding at Cana and probably the most familiar to us during December – The Nativity.

The interaction and storytelling between parents, grandparents and children was wonderful to see, some counting how many sheep there were in the building and others taking part in the quiz and others doing the Baublicious activity.

Is this something that your church could host in the future? Everything you need, which includes the scenes, tablecloths, quizzes and much more, all come as part of the package. You will need a largish space to put all 36 scenes in and at least a couple of weeks to allow time for pickup, setup, opening to the public and then packing away afterwards ready for the next hosts.

Look on www.stgeorgesurc.co.uk/theknitted-bible/ to see when it is available at a time that suits you and your church.

Please note that you will have to pick it up and it could be anywhere in the country. It is suggested that you will need a minibus (preferably with the seats out) or transit van. The next host church then collects from you.

If you have any questions, I am more than happy to help.

Linda Cooke, email at linda.cooke@ congregational.org.uk

LOCAL CHURCH NEWS

Sherston Congregational Church Congratulations to Sherston CC which celebrated its 200 year anniversary in 2025 with a Cheese and Wine event and guest of honour President Caroline Stott.

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MISSION

Mission in Myanmar An update about the Grace Children’s Ministry (GCM) and the Okkan Mission Children in Myanmar

By Reverend Elvis SaDo, Minister at the Congregational Church of Myanmar

Missionary family members.

Right: The current renting house.

Teaching and praying are part of the Grace Children’s Ministry in Myanmar.

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The Grace Children’s Ministry (GCM) provides education and care for needy, displaced children in Myanmar. The objective of GCM is to fulfil the great commission of the Lord Jesus Christ (see Matthew 28:19-20).

Due to ongoing civil war in Myanmar, there are many challenges across the regions and many thousands of children are being displaced and living in extreme poverty. Many of the parents in the mission do not have enough to support their education needs. In the recent Okkan GCM annual programme, at least 47 children (aged 6-14) participated. The programme includes teaching about Christ and Bible verses and Christian songs. At least 52 children who are in the GCM programme need support for their education and care. $45 can cover one child’s education and care for one month.

Okkan Mission is one of the Congregational Church of Myanmar (CCM) Missions in Myanmar and it started in 2005. As the CCM church was only established in 2000, infrastructure is one of the biggest challenges. It has not got enough funds to provide for the Okkan house rent for the missionary family, Sunday meeting, and GCM programme; so Elvis SaDo has been trying to manage the Okkan house rent since 2005. Our estimated budget for a good house for church in Okkan is approximately $55000.

The Mission team is now planning for Okkan Mission Children gospel outreach programme which includes Bible lessons, songs and sharing God’s love. The Grace Children’s Ministry not only provides an education and care but it is also for soul’s winning ministry as it reaches many of the non-Christian children. Thank God. The GCM needs for 2026-27 school year are basic needs for the education of nearly 100 children. Thank you for your prayers!

I’m pleased to send you an update about the Okkan Mission house project for

your information and prayer! We are able to find three houses, including the current renting house, which are ready to sell for the Congregational Church of Myanmar (CCM) Mission. The land area is 40 feet wide and 60 feet long, which will cost approximately $55000. Your thoughtful concern is much needed!

See Facebook @ ‘Grace Children’s Ministry and Mission’ and @ ‘Congregational Church of Myanmar.’

Email Rev Elvis SaDo on sadoelvis@yahoo.com.

Any gift for GCM can be sent to us by way of Western Union transfer or by way of Congregational fellowship Church in Australia which is a member of Congregational Federation of Australia and New Zealand.

Thank you.

RESOURCES

Easter Ideas!

To save you time, Refresh has done a trawl around the Lent and Easter resources that are new or refreshed for 2026

BOOK FOR A RADICAL SHIFT Easter in Disguise: The 2026 Lent Book by Liz Dodd. Published by Bloomsbury. For personal or group use. Describing Lent as Easter in disguise and as a radical season of resistance, author Liz Dodd blends contemporary spirituality with scriptural reflection. Read more about what to expect here www.bloomsbury.com/uk/easter-indisguise-9781399419772/ BOOK FOR BIBLICAL GROWTH Meeting God in John: A Companion for Lent, Holy Week, Easter and beyond

by David F. Ford, published by SPCK, November 2025. They say, ‘whether you are completely new to John’s Gospel or have read it many times before, Meeting God in John will help you see the Fourth Gospel with fresh eyes and gain a deeper understanding of its essential meaning and purpose.’ See more at https:// spckpublishing.co.uk/meeting-god-in-john.

BOOK FOR YOUNGER READERS Jesus’ Easter Journey: A Resurrection Story

by Carine MacKenzie, illustrated by Daniele Fabbri. They say, ‘written in accessible language perfect for young minds and complemented by thoughtful illustrations, the clear, chronological storytelling helps kids grasp the significance of each moment while maintaining the wonder and mystery of these events.’

Published by CF4Kids, November 2025. www.christianfocus.com/en-gb/ product/9781527112216/jesus-easterjourney-hardback A LENT JOURNEY ‘Here’s what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God … you will begin to sense his grace.’

The Congregational Federation is running “A Secluded Place” as a journey through Lent and Easter 2026. This will run until Pentecost. To receive daily emails, please fill out the form on the CF website here: www.congregational.org.uk/a-secludedplace/a-secluded-place and see daily reflections and images on the Lent website here www.congfed.wixsite.com/ asecludedplace2026.

CHARITY SUPPORT Christian Aid has suggestions for ways to act, to give, and to pray this Lent and Easter, including a six-week course on acting on poverty or posters to support holding a Lent Lunch or a Big Brekkie.

Find more here www.christianaid.org.uk/ appeals/key-appeals/lent-easter-appeal.

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FESTIVAL TIME

Greenbelt 2025 A review of Greenbelt as it is today

By Nigel Lindsay

Top: View of the main stage.

Below: Pole construction display.

Opposite: The Peace Wall.

The Greenbelt crowd before taking communion.

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I last spent the weekend at Greenbelt in the early 1980s and remember the toilets and that it was near somewhere which had a tulip festival. I think I went for a day when it was at Cheltenham. Since then I have been to the Christian festivals of New Wine and Spring Harvest and am familiar with the programmes in those places.

What Greenbelt says This year, Greenbelt is 27-30 August 2026 back in the fields around Boughton House near Kettering. The website says, ‘Challenging the status quo isn’t easy.

We work to make each Greenbelt more

environmentally friendly than the last. But we’re on a journey and there’s still a long way to go. Come with us as we try to tread as lightly as possible on this good earth as we make the festival each year.’

‘Some of us have been coming here our whole lives. Some of us are back after a break, and some are brand new to the party. Whether it’s your first time, or your 15th, you can expect a warm welcome – regardless of ethnicity, gender, religion, sexuality, disability or background.’

What it was like last year I enjoyed my few days there, we stayed out in an Airbnb and took the bus in each day. We were with friends from the URC. The booking fee included the chance to camp and this allows you to experience the full programme from early morning until late. The site is big with many tented venues all operating a full array of activities, interviews, talks, singing, dancing, craft, fun and challenge. There is plenty of choice to buy all sorts of food.

The queues for the outdoor toilets move quickly.

My highlight was the ‘Beer and Hymns’, singing some well-known hymns and carols with thousands of people in the outdoors was a great experience. On the Sunday morning, they invite local churches to join them for a Communion Service and I could just see thousands of people sharing together in this great statement

FESTIVAL TIME of faith. The woman priest leading was an 83-year-old who had been labeled a terrorist for supporting Palestine Action alongside a 10-year-old boy. Her brief sermon and the symbolism was moving; we tied our hands with rag, then untied them due to Jesus’ sacrifice, and then joined all our hands together again with thousands to represent our unity in Christ.

The singing lead by a great group was fantastic and the liturgy and prayers done in sign language and translated into words was inclusive.

I was able to attend talks and interviews on reparations following the exploitation of colonized peoples. I also found useful information on the impact of climate change, the needs of refugees, policies from the Green Party and the new unnamed party. I did some juggling and attended a play and watched acrobatics.

Yes, I would like to go again, maybe next time to camp to get the full immersive experience. Greenbelt is hot on justice issues and inclusion and is certainly different from other Christian events I have attended.

Find out more about Greenbelt at www.greenbelt.org.uk Greenbelt 2026 is 27–30 August, Boughton House, Near Kettering.

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WORLD MISSION Credit: Heather Wilde, Unsplash

‘Where the wild God is’ Feedback on using CWM resources for a Sunday service

By Anna Bradley, Minister at Bretherton Congregational Church I enjoyed preparing the Council for World Mission (CWM) resources for our church. It was a great way to encourage us to think once again about the fight for justice and to remember those who are oppressed in our world, to ask God where our place is, in World Mission, as an individual and as a church. I absolutely loved ‘Where the Wild God Is’ and used these lyrics in my sermon and it was easy to sing for the congregation. ‘Rise to life more

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abundantly’, is also new for us and we will use it again.

I did have to adapt a few slides so they could be viewed by all on a screen, some I made into two slides and so on.

We did not use the youth resources as many young people were on holiday but I did refer to them.

Many thanks to you all for preparing them. One member of our congregation said she found it a bit deep but then she said perhaps she needed to be challenged!

I’ve attached my words from one of the suggested readings! Well, God’s words actually as I had no clue where to begin, so we began outside with the butterflies and praying!

I also loved the Ali Burns song at the end. I have paid for the resources for it and though I didn’t get everyone singing this time as many were away and we did not have enough young people. Also, people aren’t always happy with too many new songs or hymns in a service. However, I will look to her for other songs too. We did listen to it at the end and I used the words as a prayer. It’s in my head a lot this week.

Thank you!

WORLD MISSION Credit: Aleksandra Sapozhnicova, Unsplash

Reading: Colossians 1:15-28 Address As I was thinking about what I was about to write here, I’d just made mugs of tea for builders and one for me! I went outside to gaze upon the multitude of butterflies that we get on sunny afternoons at the moment. Joy rose in me as I watched peacocks, red admirals, tortoiseshells, commas, large whites and small ones, all moving so gracefully from one flower to the next, some even sharing the same banquet of a huge pink buddleia flowerhead for a while together.

This togetherness, this side by side, really struck me. Suddenly I felt a little prick on the back of my arm, a peacock butterfly had chosen to rest there for a while, it took me out of the mesmerising butterflies and caused me to focus, just on it, its rainbow of colours perfectly matched on each wing.

And then I thought of the lack of justice given to butterflies … their nectar source diminishing as we clear land, build houses, clear hedgerows and use pesticides … and how in my garden we try to plant it so they can live and thrive. So that those little caterpillars can transform and rise to new life as they take to their wings.

When Paul was writing to the Colossians, he reminds the Christians there that God is the creator of all things … that through Him we have hope … he clearly states that once we were far away from God but that through the death and resurrection of His Son we are now reconciled to God. But for this relationship to remain we are, and I quote Paul, ‘to continue in our faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the Gospel.’

Sometimes when we look at the world, we look at the injustices and poverty, and in the pain and suffering we are overwhelmed. But, if we pray and we are open to God, He will focus us, just like the peacock’s little prick focused me, He will help you to see what He wants you to see.

And so the Council of World Mission asks us some questions: 1. When you hear the needs in our community here, our church and beyond, WHO do you pray for?

2. When you hear the stories of God at work in our community, WHAT do you pray for?

Paul tells the Colossians, I have become the church’s servant, by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness…’ and that he Paul, ‘to this end labours, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in him.’

So do you let Christ’s energy powerfully work in you?

The only way for this to happen is to pray, to pray and pray and never stop, to not give up, just like Paul!

At the last church meeting, I opened by talking about God being the potter and that we as individuals are jars of clay and I think we could liken the church as a huge jar of clay.

We have to let God be the potter. Do you let Him be the potter .. the final line of one of our earlier prayers, coincidently the same as what I felt God asking me to share last Thursday, ‘May we become clay in your hands, ready to be transformed by You!’ So the final CWM question is this, ‘When you consider God’s call to mission, what will you do?’

As a church we had a call to mission through Vicky and Zara… we have prayed a lot and look at what has been achieved!

So as the song, ‘Where the wild God is’ reminds us, let us ask God to light our way, allow Him to lead us beyond familiar ways, beyond our comfort, beyond our fear, and let justice and love be your way. Amen.

Find resources for Sundays on the CWM website at: www.cwmission.org/resources/ sundays-with-cwm/ CWM Sunday is 19 July 2026

17

YOUTH ADVENTURE

Making a difference, one brick at a time Helping to build a toilet block in Uganda Report by Bretherton Congregational Church

Local builders build the new toilet block.

The newly painted block at the top of the playground.

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In June 2025, a small youth group from Bretherton Congregational Church set off to Uganda, but this was no ordinary trip – it was all about pitching in, learning new things, and making a discernible impact.

We had spent months coming up with creative ways to raise money to help build a toilet block at a Ugandan school to make life a little better for the kids there. When we landed in Uganda, we were met by Elijah, the headteacher of Toowa School and his wife Grace and then travelled to Lugazi, the nearest town. The trip from the city to the small village of Toowa, a few hours north of Kampala, was a real eye opener – busy highways, bustling markets, and lots of friendly faces.

On our first morning, we journeyed out of the town to the school and were struck by the amazing scenery – lush green views very similar to our own nearby Lake District. Nothing could have prepared us, however, for the welcome we received. The whole school had gathered and some of them put on a traditional Ugandan dance performance – we even got a chance to try it for ourselves much to the amusement of the children! From the get-go, the group

wanted to connect with the kids – no need to speak the same language when you’re having fun! Over the next few days we were able to take some lessons, share in the kids’ games during break times, and share stories.

The toilet upgrade We saw the existing toilet facilities which were in rough shape, making things tough for everyone, especially the girls. However, using the funds that we had raised over the last year, the new facilities had been built by the local builders and were ready for the finishing touch – a coat of paint!

Although novice painters, the young people threw themselves into the task complete with ponchos and shower caps!

The work was tough and sweaty, but teamwork and determination got them through. The new toilets were designed to be sturdy and long lasting with separate facilities for everyone to use.

A lunchtime celebration and sports day As part of the celebrations for the new facilities, the team organised lunch for the

YOUTH ADVENTURE whole school – a hearty meal of chicken, Irish roast potatoes, rice and gravy. There were long queues for seconds and thirds! In amongst the joy though it brought home to the team how something we would see as a simple meal, was a rare and extravagant treat for these kids and they would not receive such a feast for a long time to come.

As part of their fundraising, the team had brought along some school equipment including stationery, books and sports equipment. This included a cricket set, a tag rugby set and a rainbow parachute! While we were there, the annual sports day was held – the whole school including teachers and the visitors walked the three miles to the top of the village where there was a large expanse of green. It was a beautiful space and there were lots of races and games including football and netball which meant the visitors could compete with the kids. We also taught them how to play cricket – they soon got the hang of it!

Lives of contrast There were opportunities to visit some families at their homes in the surrounding villages. This allowed us to see first hand the challenges that they face with limited access to electricity and running water and very basic conditions. This highlighted the together made them stronger and helped poverty and deprivation that exists and how them grow into more caring, globally different their lives at home in the UK are. minded people.

The week passed so quickly and it was a The youth trip to Uganda proved that rollercoaster of emotions. The team visited with a little determination, teamwork, and a safari park for the last few days and saw open hearts, real change is possible. The some wildlife of Uganda up close. new toilets changed lives at the school, This trip changed the group for good. but the biggest transformation was in They saw their own lives with fresh eyes, everyone who took part – showing just how grateful for what they have and determined powerful it is to build hope, one brick at a to make a difference. Facing new challenges time.

Ugandan and British teamwork at Toowa School.

The novice painting team from Bretherton Youth Group.

Finishing touches from top to bottom.

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HISTORICAL RESEARCH

Tour of a tower A personal pilgrimage to the Lollards’ Tower at Lambeth Palace

By Karen Haden, author

John Wycliffe William Tyndale 20

Congregationalists and Baptists do not usually honour saints and shrines, but when writing my seventeenth century crime novels, I loved visiting Gainsborough, Scrooby, Boston and other locations associated with our Separatist roots. However, as I researched more, I was drawn to a different site, one rarely seen by the public. Amazingly, Lambeth Palace staff agreed to my ‘bucket list’ request to visit its Lollards’ Tower, where religious prisoners were once held.

Lollards were followers of John Wycliffe, the Catholic priest who translated the Latin Vulgate Bible into English around 1320. They continued to read the bibles and advocate for reform throughout the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, to the annoyance of the Catholic Church hierarchy. Lollards were honoured in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, which was popular with Puritans and Independents at the time of my novels, as was William Tyndale who translated the original Hebrew and Greek in 1536.

Events Manager, Louise, gave me and my husband Simon a personal tour of

HISTORICAL RESEARCH

Lambeth Palace. We knew we would not be allowed to climb the stairs to the actual cell where prisoners were held, because of safety concerns, but it was moving to stand by the door beneath in the Post Room, and imagine those imprisoned for practices we take for granted now. In those days, the River Thames came right up to the Palace wall. Religious prisoners arrived by boat, in a similar way to traitors at the Tower of London.

Some on-line articles state that Lollards were never held in the cell, but Louise assured us they were. Their graffiti is still visible on the walls. There is a modern sculpture in the Post Room honouring a contemporary mystic called Margary Kemp who was also imprisoned there.

The whole tour was a fascinating experience. Lambeth Palace has many historical buildings, beautiful gardens, and a climate-controlled library dedicated to Archbishop Richard Bancroft, the antagonist in my books. We saw the fig tree planted by William Laud, and the chapel balcony where Thomas Cramner wrote the first Book of Common Prayer.

Although not something Independent believers would use, services were conducted in English from that time on, apart from a brief interruption during Queen Mary’s reign. Since hearing about Dame Sarah Mulally’s appointment, it is also gratifying to imagine her portrait hanging alongside those of other Archbishops we saw in the Palace corridors. Louise has offered another visit, so perhaps I will be able to see it one day.

Top row: Lambeth Palace.

Having a guided tour.

Lambeth Palace Prison in 2017

by Alex Baker Photography.

Lollards’ Tower today at Lambeth Palace, London.

Karen Haden’s book covers.

Karen’s novels are available at www.amazon.co.uk/stores/KarenHaden/author/B0D15LWHZV or you can visit her website at www.karenhaden.blogspot.com

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LOCAL EVANGELISM

Connect Evangelism Training Programme What it would look like if every church had passionate church evangelists equipped to share the Gospel

Beverley Bedford, the Project 125 Lead for the Counties programme, describes the aims and outcomes of the work

What is the Connect Evangelist Training Programme?

Below: Dave Jordan has been a Christian since mid 2024 and has since been baptised, completed CETP and begun running his own evangelistic events.

In early 2025, Counties launched the Connect Evangelist Training Programme (CETP), to offer evangelism training to anyone who wants to feel better equipped at sharing their faith. The course is ideal for those who are already active in evangelism, as well as those who wish to champion evangelism in the local church. Through a six-module online platform, trainees will look at the following themes: The Gospel, The Evangelist, The Team, The Mission Field, The Church, and The Main Thing.

How the training works The course offers not only a robust theology of evangelism but also practical exercises, such as taking the opportunity to walk through your neighbourhood with a friend and write down all the broken things

you see. One trainee brought his nonbelieving friend on the walk with him and as a result the friend recognised his own brokenness and is now attending church.

For all trainees, we ask them to identify a mentor to support and encourage them throughout the learning process. The mentor will provide accountability and be that trusted and relational champion to encourage personal and spiritual growth. The trainee and mentor use the accompanying resources to regularly catch up and review what the trainee has learnt and how they can implement this.

How real lives have been changed The feedback from the trainees has been so encouraging: “The training videos and materials were well presented, really clear and powerful. The discussion conversations really embedded the learning experience.”

One trainee, Dave Jordan, who has completed the course writes: “During the course I was asked to plan an outreach assignment, I decided to go one better and hosted a two-day golf mission with my mentor, four Christians and nine non-believers. One friend said, “You don’t look like a Christian.” That opened a deep conversation. Now four of them are exploring faith. More events are planned. I would never have attempted this if I had not started the Connect Evangelist Training Programme.”

The vision for the local church The vision of Counties is not simply to train individuals in evangelism, but to help local churches recognise and raise their own Evangelism Champions.

The evangelist is gifted to share the Good News with clarity and passion, to

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LOCAL EVANGELISM equip the church, to be outward focused and to inspire believers to actively participate in the Great Commission. Jesus gave a clarion call as He commissioned His first disciples: “Go and make disciples of all the nations.” (Matthew 28:19 NLT) Becoming an Evangelism Champion Upon finishing CETP, Counties’ desire is for trainees to become Evangelism Champions in their local church. This is someone who is trained and raised through CETP and recognised by their local church and Counties as a Connect Evangelism Champion. They are likely to be in secular work, bi-vocational or possibly employed in their local church; supported by their local church and invited to become part of a regional Counties Cluster gatherings of evangelists to receive support, encouragement and further evangelism training.

Naomi Watts is a Children and Families support worker based at Cannon Court Evangelical Church in Fetcham, Surrey.

She has now completed the CETP training and is Counties’ first full-fledged Connect Evangelism Champion. Naomi writes, “I want to help people in my village encounter Jesus, this is something that has been birthed in me during the training.” The course has given me so much more confidence and passion. It has given me a new perspective to see people as Jesus sees them. I think it is about seeing the town we live in as our mission field.

There is something quietly and unmistakably stirring. “Wake up” is the prophetic voice across the UK, move and get ready, the harvest is here. It is certainly not the time to give up, stay hidden in the cave, or asleep in the grave but to awake, the Lord is at work.

Pray with us that we may see significant growth in the number of trained evangelists, mostly local church based so that the role and impact of evangelism is raised.

Train with us by joining CETP today.

Now is the time to sharpen your passion for sharing the love of Jesus with others and bring transformational change in the places and spaces you live and serve. Scan the QR code and start your journey at www.countiesuk.org/training.

Connect with us and begin the journey.

The Counties team will work with CETP trainees and mentors to help to identify those who may be gifted and called to do the work of evangelism.

Are you ready to champion evangelism in your local church? For more details, email Beverley Bedford at beverley. bedford@countiesuk.org.

Above: This training can be completed individually or as a group, where you can discuss your thoughts and be accountable to each other.

Left: Naomi Watts is a Children and Families Support worker based at Cannon Court Evangelical Church in Fetcham, Surrey.

Beverley is working to raise Connect Evangelism Champions and church evangelists through Counties’ training programme. Since 2014, she’s been involved with Counties and her local church in evangelism, mission, and church planting. Founder of ARISE, she mentors to encourage, equip and empower believers. Beverley lives in North Devon with her husband Bryan and has two adult children and a grandson. www.countiesuk.org Scan the QR code or visit Counties’ training page, where you can preview session 1 of CETP.

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LEARNING TOGETHER

Top tips for learning churches A series offering practical ideas on church life by Catherine Booton, Learning and Development Manager at Congregational Federation Help … we want to try something new!

You’ve had a brilliant idea – you want to try something new at church.

Maybe a new form of worship, or a club for a new group of people, or even a new spin on an existing event, like a lunch rather than a coffee morning, or a youth club coming out of a holiday Bible club. But you’re not sure where to start. Read on for some tips on starting something new.

Scoffers and mockers Before we begin… I know we’ve all heard the cries of the scoffers and mockers in our churches – “You can’t try something new! What if it fails?”, “We tried that 20 years ago and it didn’t work”, “What’s wrong with what we are doing already?”, “It’ll see us out.” I’m not necessarily saying

Credit: Meredith Spencer, Unsplash

that you shouldn’t listen – there are some words of wisdom to be gained by looking into the past, but just because something didn’t work 20 years ago in a particular place, run by a particular group of people, doesn’t always mean it will have the same outcome in the here and now.

Despite the worries, still you feel that God is moving you to do something new, something different, something that might just spread his message a little further and perhaps even do your part in bringing God’s kingdom to your small corner of his vineyard.

A prayerful approach So where do you start?

Firstly, and most importantly, we need to pray. We need to ask God what he wants us to do, how we can serve him and to ask him to show us the way to go. Take time to listen to what he is saying to us.

Look around at your community and see if this new thing you have thought of has a place where you are. Can you see it being able to work? Does it have the right audience? Is there too much competition for the same event?

Starting up Once we are as sure as we can be that we are jumping on board what God wants us to do, then it’s time to begin.

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When the time for the event arrives, make sure you are prepared.

• Do you have everything you need for the event?

• Are you prepared to make changes if more or less people arrive than expected?

• Do you have the relevant risk assessments, health and safety checks in place?

• Have you checked the premises to ensure all is in order?

And if it fails, don’t give up at the first hurdle! Some events will need to be run a number of times before they gain ground and become successful. Don’t despair and if it really isn’t going to take off, then why not try something else instead?

Credit: Chantel, Unsplash

Being prepared

Credit: Priscilla Du Preez, Unsplash

• Take it to a church meeting so that you can gain church support for the activity.

• Build a team – gather those people who want to be part of the new activity – don’t do it alone!

• Plan, Plan, Plan. Remember the five Ws – what, when, where, who, why – in your planning to ensure all eventualities are covered.

• Budget. Do you need a budget to start the activity? Are there local or CF grants you could apply to?

• Advertise – it’s no good starting something new if no one knows it’s happening. Think of your target market and advertise accordingly.

- Can you make a good poster to put up at local public spaces?

– Can you get information onto social media, in the local information website?

– Is there a local radio station that could help?

Credit: John Tyson, Unsplash

LEARNING TOGETHER

Keep praying, keep listening and keep going!

Remember everything was new at some point!

Wishing you every blessing for whatever your new thing is this springtime.

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LEARNING TOGETHER

26

TESTIMONY

Finding God on TikTok

God touched Harry’s heart after watching a few TikTok videos about Jesus!

By Harry Flynn

My name is Harry Flynn and I’m 18 years old; when I was 17, I found Jesus.

Growing up I believed there was a God and knew about Jesus. But I never accepted Jesus or Christianity.

I lived in sin because it was easy and accepted by the world. Sin felt good in the moment but I always felt empty afterwards and shame. I was never proud of the man I was because of the sin that controlled me. I had no ambition or goals towards the future and was just empty inside. I lived for myself and for sin.

A year ago when I was 17, I saw a lot of Pastors and Christians preaching the good word of Jesus online. The words they preached and testimony they gave affected me. I mainly saw Christians on TikTok, sharing the gospel and telling me that Jesus loves me. I felt Jesus calling me and I felt his love.

Before I joined the church I was scared to go out and find a church. I’m the only Christian that I knew in Swansea so there was no one I could get help or advice from, except the Lord. So I prayed every night before bed to help me find a church and a community. I kept praying for days (maybe weeks), I prayed for the Lord to help me or introduce someone to help me.

I kept praying.

One day, my friend decided to get some chicken. Once we got it, we walked

through town to Parc Tawe. We were walking, and my friend was stopped by a man asking him about if he accepted Jesus. He said no he was Muslim, then walked away. I jumped in and said I did, and I’m a Christian, he then invited me to his church on Sunday, which I happily agreed to. I was so grateful for this gift from the Lord and couldn’t wait for Sunday.

I am so grateful to Pastor Jaesub for inviting me to the church and thankful for the community for accepting me and being so welcoming. I love the church and I love Jesus. I have been growing in my relationship with Jesus and I am just so thankful for everything he’s done for me in my life.

Jesus gave me a purpose and gave me a fresh new life. Thank you, Lord, for saving me, loving me, and forgiving me.

Thank you for listening.

Amen.

Harry Flynn and Pastor Jaesub from All Nations Church on the day of Harry’s baptism at Langland Bay, Swansea, on the 31 August 2025.

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TECHNOLOGY

QR codes: what are they good for?

A look at creative uses for QR codes in church life

By Neil Chappell, Social Media and Website Officer at Congregational Federation

Most of us are now familiar with QR codes for contactless giving, those square pixelated patterns that let people make donations with a quick scan of their phone.

But QR codes can do so much more than handle payments. They are essentially bridges between the physical and digital worlds, and churches are finding increasingly creative ways to use them.

The beauty of QR codes lies in their simplicity. Anyone with a smartphone – current data suggests 96% of the UK population owns a mobile phone, and 93% of that number have a smartphone – can scan one using their camera app, and they are instantly taken to whatever you’ve linked: a webpage, a form, a video, or even a pre-written text message. They are free to generate, easy to print, and can be updated to point to different content without reprinting.

It is worth noting that whilst smartphone ownership is now at record levels – virtually 100% of 16 to 24 year olds have one – there is still a significant portion of older people (around a third of those 65+) who don’t have smartphones. This 28

must be a factor in any plans to use QR codes in your church. #southamvisit One of the most effective uses is for first-time visitors. Place a QR code in your church porch or on welcome cards that links to a simple welcome page.

This might include service times, a brief introduction to your church community, information about coffee after the service, and how to get involved. It’s a lowpressure way for visitors to learn more at their own pace, without feeling they need to ask lots of questions or take home armfuls of leaflets. Try scanning this code to see an example of this.

You could also use QR codes on pew sheets linking to a visitor form. Rather than asking newcomers to fill in a card during the service, they can scan and complete it on their phone when it suits them. This

TECHNOLOGY

Credit: Marielle Ursua, Unsplash

often feels less intrusive and can actually increase response rates.

During services, QR codes can provide easy access to supplementary materials.

Link to song lyrics for those who struggle with small print in hymn books, or to additional Bible passages that connect with the sermon. Some churches include QR codes in their bulletin that link to sermon notes or discussion questions, making it easier for house groups to follow up on Sunday’s message.

For families, QR codes can transform church spaces. Create a prayer trail around your building or churchyard, with QR codes at different stations linking to short As churches, we’re called to be reflections, prayers, or even audio recordings accessible and welcoming to all. In an suitable for children. This works wonderfully increasingly digital age, QR codes are a for seasonal activities during Advent or Lent. simple, practical tool that can help us do QR codes excel at simplifying event exactly that. management. Rather than asking people to #cf-code If you’d like to know more email to register for an Alpha course, church then scan this code and fill in the contact weekend away, or volunteer rota, put a QR form – there’s a bonus video for you to code on your notices that links straight to watch as well! a sign-up form. This makes the process simpler and more likely that people will actually follow through.

For ongoing church life, consider QR codes that link to your calendar, the weekly prayer list, safeguarding policies, or building hire information.

Generating QR codes is straightforward.

Free websites like qr-code-generator.com If you would like to know more, or qrcode-monkey.com let you create them please contact Neil at in seconds. Simply enter the web address neil.chappell@congregational.org.uk. you want to link to, and download the image.

Most platforms also offer tracking, so you can see how many people are actually scanning your codes, which helps you understand what’s working, although this is often a premium feature that needs a subscription.

A few practical tips: always test your QR codes before printing them, ensure they are large enough to scan easily (at least 3cm square), and include a short written description nearby so people know what they’re scanning. Not everyone is comfortable with technology, so ‘Scan for service times’ is more inviting than just a mysterious square pattern.

QR codes shouldn’t replace human welcome and connection, they should enhance it. They’re particularly valuable for people who are naturally more reserved, who want to explore at their own pace, or who think of questions after they’ve left the building. Used thoughtfully, they’re another way of saying “you’re welcome here, and we want to make it easy for you to connect with us.”

Credit: Markus Winkler, Unsplash

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INCLUSIVE CHURCH

On pilgrimage in the UK

An intrepid band of walkers set out from St Peter’s Church in Navenby to get to Lincoln Cathedral

By Mark Taylor, Minister of Newark Congregational Church

What is an inclusive church?

In March 2024, following a lengthy period of discussion and reflection, Newark Congregational Church signed up to the Inclusive Church Statement which states: “We believe in inclusive church – a church which celebrates and affirms every person and does not discriminate.

We will continue to challenge the church where it continues to discriminate against people on grounds of disability, economic power, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, learning disability, mental health, neurodiversity, or sexuality.

We believe in a Church which welcomes and serves all people in the name of Jesus Christ; which is scripturally faithful; which seeks to proclaim the Gospel afresh for each generation; and which, in the power of the Holy Spirit, allows all people to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Jesus Christ.”

We were the first church in Newark to adopt the statement and remain the only

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one to do so. We would dearly like other churches to take the same stance.

On pilgrimage for Inclusive Church On Thursday 11 September, a group of pilgrims from our church set out to walk the 11 miles from St. Peter’s Church Navenby to Lincoln Cathedral. Following a route devised by the cathedral, our aims were to enjoy the countryside, to have a time for reflection, and to promote the Inclusive Church movement that the church is part of.

Six pilgrims walked the whole of the route, each wearing specially designed Inclusive Church t-shirts, while others joined for part of the route. The walk called in at seven other churches on the way and the guidebook provided historical information and gave ideas for things to ponder on the way. The group challenged itself (largely successfully) to remain in silent reflection during one 1.5 mile leg of the walk.

Just as we approached St Michael’s Church, Waddington, I commented on what a beautiful autumn day it was for walking. Having looked around the modern church (the original building was destroyed by a war-time bomb), on leaving we opened the door to a thunderstorm. We carried on undaunted, albeit somewhat damp, the rest of the way.

We had told the cathedral of our plans and we received a great welcome from the staff as we joined in with a magnificent choral evensong at the end of the day, proudly wearing our t-shirts. If you wish to, you can view the service and play ‘Spot the Pilgrims’ on YouTube: www.youtube. com/watch?v=6pKjvv5TbeE&t=3762s.

INCLUSIVE CHURCH

Media attention

• Engaging with the local LGBT community in a local pub to let them know where In order to obtain some local publicity for they will find a welcome in churches in our walk we issued a press release which the area; was picked up by our local newspaper, The •

Raising the issue regularly at Churches Newark Advertiser in a half page feature, Together in Newark meetings; including a photograph of us outside the •

Supporting other local churches that have cathedral at the end of our pilgrimage. expressed an interest in the issue.

Everyone who took part in the walk said I’m not sure how many other it was a wonderful experience. We are Congregational Churches are members of already planning another (longer) pilgrimage Inclusive Church but if you are interested next year. Unfortunately, we will need in exploring this issue I’d be very happy new t-shirts as just after our pilgrimage for you to contact me, Mark Taylor, at Inclusive Church changed their logo! newarkcongregational@virginmedia.com.

What’s next?

I can share with you the approach we took at Newark to prepare the ground for our We plan to keep promoting our stance. We unanimous decision at a church meeting are working with the vicar of a group of in 2024. I’d also be happy to visit you to three Church of England parishes in villages discuss the matter at a meeting, or to lead around Newark which are also Inclusive a service about my approach to inclusivity.

Churches. Our plans include: This is a cause whose time has come.

• Holding a promotional event with a highprofile speaker – we are planning a day’s seminar in church and online with author Find out more about Inclusive Church Dave Tomlinson on Saturday 10 October at www.inclusive-church.org. (please get in touch to reserve a place);

Below: At the start of the walk at St Peter’s Church, Navenby.

St Michael’s Church, Waddington. Just before the heavens opened.

The end of the Pilgrimage at the door of Lincoln Cathedral.

From left to right: Deborah Taylor, Mark Taylor, Nigel Allen, Rich Gascoyne, Trevor Pailing, Lorraine Pailing and Julie Hill.

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OVERSEAS DEVELOPMENT

‘Give us this day our daily bread’ For millions of people around the world, bread is a daily struggle, Operation Agri’s work brings hope to local Christian communities.

By Alexandra Lear, Charity Manager at Operation Agri

Operation Agri: growing hope where it is needed most When a local church prays, “Give us this day our daily bread,” it joins a global chorus. For millions, that prayer is more than words – it’s a daily struggle. Bread, and the grain behind it, depends not only on rainfall but on access to skills, tools, and the courage to try new ways of growing and sharing. That’s where Operation Agri steps in.

Instead of quick fixes, we invest in training, tools, and trust to build resilience and confidence so communities can lift themselves out of poverty.

Voices from the field

Who we are and why we exist Operation Agri began over 60 years ago as a simple response to hunger and poverty. Today, we are a UK-based Christian development charity with a clear mission: Christian love in action.

Our calling is to tackle poverty at its roots – not with handouts, but with hope and empowerment.

We partner with locally led Christian organisations across Africa, Asia, and Central America. Why local? Because lasting change happens when communities themselves lead the way. Every project we support is culturally rooted, communitydriven, and designed to endure long after the initial funding ends.

Our work spans: • Agricultural training and irrigation – helping farmers grow more food sustainably.

• Women’s empowerment and skills development – enabling families to thrive.

• Health clinics and clean water systems – saving lives and restoring dignity.

• Education and non-formal learning – opening doors for the next generation.

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Goats in Sri Lanka When Mary’s husband died, poverty threatened to overwhelm her family. Then came a gift that changed everything: a simple goat shelter through the Lanka Evangelical Alliance Development Service (LEADS) project. With her goats safe from monsoon rains, Mary began producing milk and selling livestock. Today, her income feeds her family and funds her children’s schooling. Mary now mentors other widows.

OVERSEAS DEVELOPMENT How your church can get involved

Sunflowers shine in Tanzania For Hillary and Deus, farming was a constant battle against poor soils and rising costs. But everything changed when the Farming Partnership Initiative (FPI) introduced sunflower cultivation.

With training and seeds, they now press their own cooking oil – saving money and earning extra income from surplus seeds.

Their dream is to establish a local oil mill to serve the whole community.

Beyond the bricks in Pakistan For 43 years, Rani endured gruelling labour, loans, and abuse at a brick kiln alongside her children. After Light for the Nation (LFTN) intervened, she joined sewing and literacy classes, learning to sew, knit, crochet, embroider and read. This new skill set led to a factory supervisor role, where she now oversees and safeguards other women.

Why this matters for Congregational Churches Congregational churches understand the power of local leadership – a passion Operation Agri shares. Every project is locally led, culturally rooted, and designed to last. When we partner with these initiatives, we are not just sending money overseas, we are joining hands with brothers and sisters who are living out the Gospel in practical, life-changing ways.

Supporting Operation Agri is a way for churches to embody the values they hold dear: partnership, community, and mission. It is about being part of something bigger to help the global church flourish while strengthening our own sense of purpose.

• Harvest Appeals – Operation Agri provides free resources for Harvest services, including videos, stories, and prayer guides.

• Presents With A Purpose – a way to support global mission work while giving a gift that truly makes a difference.

• Mission Sundays – share Operation Agri’s work during worship and invite your congregation to respond.

• Youth Engagement – use Operation Agri’s materials to teach young people about global justice and practical faith.

• Prayer Partnerships – commit to praying for Operation Agri’s projects and the communities they serve, as a church or in home groups.

Resource Hub The Congregational Federation’s Resource Hub offers seasonal materials (Harvest included), plus ideas for mission, prayer, and magazine publishing. Pair Operation Agri’s resources with all-age worship plans and Harvest liturgies to weave local creativity with global compassion.

Engage Worship provides a threeservice Harvest pack with lectionary links and multimedia. Combine these outlines with Operation Agri’s videos to make the theological arc clear while keeping the focus on practical hope.

The Hub also signposts other trusted providers such as Christian Aid, All We Can, WaterAid, and Ripple Effect, whose materials complement Operation Agri’s emphasis on locally led, sustainable change.

Final thoughts Operation Agri is about empowerment.

A gift of £25 can provide seeds and tools for a family; £500 can fund training for a village savings group; £1,000 can help install a clean water system. Every pound is a practical prayer for justice and hope.

To find out more, or for a tailored package to help your church or home group engage with these global initiatives, contact Alexandra on alexandra.lear@ operationagri.org.uk.

For more information visit: www.operationAgri.org.uk

Far left: Mary with one of her precious goats in the doorway of the goat shelter, in Sri Lanka.

Top left: With training, and seeds, Hillary and Deus now grow sunflowers and use the seeds to make cooking oil, in Tanzania.

Above: A literacy class in Pakistan run by Light for the Nation (LFTN).

A Light for the Nation (LFTN) sewing graduation event in Pakistan.

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EASYFUNDRAISING

Unlocking everyday generosity One digital tool that could help Congregational churches benefit from easyfundraising

By Becky Coleman, Partnerships Manager at easyfundraising As churches, we know how important it is to steward our resources wisely and to encourage generosity in all its forms.

But what if your church could raise funds without asking anyone to give more money or attend another fundraising event?

That’s exactly what ‘easyfundraising’ makes possible.

What is easyfundraising? easyfundraising is a free platform that helps churches, charities, and community groups raise money every time their members and supporters shop online. It works with over 8,000 well-known retailers – including John Lewis, Sainsbury’s, M&S, eBay, and Tesco – who donate a small percentage of what people spend to your church at no extra cost to them.

Think of it as a digital loyalty scheme that benefits your church. Every time someone shops, your church receives a free donation.

How it works 1.

Your church registers with easyfundraising (it’s free and takes just a few minutes).

2. Members of your church community sign up and select your church as their chosen cause.

3. When they shop online via the easyfundraising website or app, the retailer sends a donation to your church.

There’s no additional cost for your supporters and no need for complicated tech skills. easyfundraising handles everything — tracking purchases, collecting donations, and sending funds directly to your church.

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Why it’s perfect for Congregational churches Many churches rely on the dedication and goodwill of small but faithful congregations. easyfundraising offers a simple, sustainable way to generate additional income to support ongoing ministry — from maintaining your building to funding outreach projects or community activities.

It’s particularly helpful for churches with members who want to contribute but may not be able to give financially on a regular basis. By doing their usual online shopping, they can still make a difference.

Over 200,000 good causes across the UK are already using easyfundraising, including many churches. Collectively, they’ve raised more than £63 million so far — all through everyday spending.

Here’s what some churches are using easyfundraising for: • Building upkeep – helping cover the cost of maintenance and repairs.

• Community outreach – funding coffee mornings, youth work, and food bank initiatives.

• Mission giving – topping up funds for partner charities and overseas projects.

• Technology and resources – buying hymn books, livestream equipment, and office supplies.

• Every donation – however small – helps sustain the life of your church.

Get started You can register your church in a few minutes at www.easyfundraising.org.uk/ congregational-federation Once registered, easyfundraising provides free resources and guidance to help you spread the word.

Credit: Kat von Wood, Unsplash

PRAYER DIARY MARCH

MAY

In March we celebrate Palm Sunday. What a joyous occasion.

Pray for each of our Congregational Churches wherever they are situated as we are all united in celebrating this special time.

Pray for the re-enactments of that wonderful Palm Sunday when Jesus rode on a donkey – this may be part of Messy Church, Café Church, at schools and church services, these can bring new life into our communities.

March can bring new life, new beginnings.

Let us pray and give thanks for our creator God who made all things, from the birds in the air, the fish in the sea, the animals that walk this land.

Please also pray for March events: 5 March World Book Day 6 March World Day of Prayer 21 March Church Support Committee meeting 25 March Investment Trust and Trading Board meeting APRIL ‘So I cherish the old, rugged Cross’ is one of the hymns that is often sung during Easter.

Let us remember the hymn writers and musicians who gave us these hymns.

Music still plays a big part in our worship, week in and week out. Let us give thanks for the talents and gifts of our own musicians and hymn writers.

Let us pray for our Congregational Churches around the country as we partake in Holy Week activities and then celebrate that joyous Easter Morning.

Continue to pray for the world that God created, help us to be custodians of it as best as we can. Consider the springing up of buds and flowers, April showers, the farmers who work tirelessly as they care for new arrivals on their farms.

Remember in prayer the April events: 10 – 12 April 24 – 25 April

CIPT Training Weekend CF Council meeting

“What a friend we During May, please pray for the churches of have in Jesus, all the Congregational Federation in the North our sins and griefs East Area as they host the Assembly. to bear!

Pray for the attendees at the Assembly, that the fellowship they find there will What a privilege to bless each one of them. carry everything to May celebrates the birth anniversary of God in prayer! the Red Cross founder and the first Nobel O what peace Peace Prize laureate, Henry Dunant. Let us give thanks for the work that the Red Cross we often forfeit, do here and abroad, the expertise of each O what needless volunteer and the ability to stay calm in the situations that they attend. If you know pain we bear, a Red Cross volunteer – say a special thank All because we you to them. do not carry Events to pray for: everything to God 8 – 10 May May CF Assembly in Sheffield in prayer!”

10 – 16 May Christian Aid Week Words by Joseph M. Scriven, 1855.

JUNE June can be a time of outdoor concerts and festivals, both national or local around the country.

Some of our churches may be involved in these, having a tent or table at them, offering prayer, activities, information to take home or a time to talk.

Let us pray for these events and ask that the work of the Lord’s Kingdom can be present at each one, no matter where they are, or how big or small. Pray that people pop into the tents and are blessed by those who are offering service, hospitality, fellowship and friendship. This might plant a small seed into the hearts of those attending.

During June, please pray for the Congregational Churches in Scotland and Wales.

Pray for Christians around the world and all the member churches of CWM. Events to remember in prayer: 26 – 28 June CIPT Training Weekend in Nottingham 35

There are eight sessions for the All for Jesus, Jesus for All resources.

Find them online at www.congregational.org.uk/all-for-jesus-jesus-for-all/all-for-jesus or email Clemy Gilmore at clemy.cf@gmail.com.

TO ORDER REFRESH An annual subscription for next year’s 3 issues, including the Yearbook, is £36 incl. p&p.

Email: admin@congregational.org.uk or tel: 0115 9111460 for details.