Conferring, please

The Carey Ministers' Conference this week was, as I anticipated, excellent. A great bunch of guys and wives in ministry, loads of whom have been great friends over the years. The quality of ministry was high, the atmosphere one of humble delight in the Lord, and eagerness to serve His church. I really look forward to next, year, and to going with Sarah. The gathering seemed to enjoy my input about Hope Church's life to date, and future plans, and the antics of our twice a Sunday attending cat were well-received.

On Monday I'm off to Hothorpe Hall for a little over twenty four hours to the Church Student Ministry Conference. I went last year, and found it a real spur, with great people, and some really practical ministry. I'm really looking forward to learning more about how to ministry through this gathering.

And the travel? Definitely by car, thankyou. The trip to and from Swanwick on the bike in tearing winds was, let's say, hair-raising - even under the lid! And 100 miles plus with a travelling partner definitely is a chance for conversation, even though he's gutted that we're not biking it.

Conferences are for conferring. I really value these times to learn from others. And I dare to think that the church always benefits, too.