Clergy Gathering 2025: A Time to Recharge and Connect

It was a chance to step away from the everyday, worship together, learn, share stories, and simply enjoy being with one another.

The gathering reminded leaders that ministry isn’t something we do alone. Through shared worship, honest conversations, and collaborative learning, they were able to recognise themselves as part of a vibrant network committed to sharing the Gospel in all kinds of contexts.

Fantastic teaching came from keynote speakers, David Wilkinson (Durham University), Yaroslav Pyzh (Ukrainian Baptist Theological Seminary), Isabelle Hamley (Ridley Hall) and Rt Revd Esther Prior (Bishop of Aston, Diocese of Birmingham).  Richard Briggs, Principal of Lindisfarne College of Theology, led daily Bible studies before breakfast.

Workshops covered everything from pastoral care and wellbeing to leadership, intercultural ministry, and creative activities. There were sessions on mental health, resilience, and burnout—practical tools for sustainable ministry—alongside strategy workshops that encouraged fresh thinking and vision. Intercultural sessions helped us think about cultural humility and inclusive ministry.

And it wasn’t all serious! Walking groups, weaving circles, and even golf gave space for informal chats. Thanks to sponsors, fun extras like a silent disco, pick-and-mix sweets, and gift bags—little touches that made the week special.

The whole event struck a great balance: deep conversations about the future of ministry, plus plenty of laughter and light-hearted moments. This triennial event explored new ideas for outreach, creative partnerships, and fresh expressions of worship.

Bishop Mark writes: “Thank you so much for being part of the 2025 Chester Clergy Gathering; I really hope that you are as encouraged and inspired as I am… although I confess I am also pretty whacked! Being together, though, always reminds me what a privilege it is to serve alongside you caring for the flock our Lord invites us to nurture together. I cannot begin to express my gratitude. Thank you, once again, to all who put so much work into enabling this to happen. Please do put 6-9 March 2028 in your diary now which is when our next gathering will be… I must start revising for the quiz (and asking Archdeacon Jane to practise her Kazoo).”

Clergy are asked to complete the feedback form using the link below to help the next organising team plan for Gathering in 2028.

Conference Feedback Form – Fill out form 

Resources

Recordings and slides from our Main Speakers and the Workshops are available at this link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/42q8pdv45cassgcafgmzj/ACUKl3nbngtlwE8cGfLHZLk?rlkey=qs8csya89i3yka42sdffzo3jd&dl=0

Next Clergy Gathering

The dates of the next Gathering are Monday 6th - Thursday 9th March 2028.