An Inspiring Three Days at Diocesan Conference 2026
“I will be reflecting on the many things talked about here for a long time.“
This week, clergy and lay leaders from across the diocese gathered at the Hayes Conference Centre in Swanwick for three days of prayer, worship, teaching and time together at our annual Diocesan Conference.
This year’s theme was ‘Leading with Loving Presence’. It was a special time of worshipping God together, with thought-provoking teaching from keynote speaker Roger Bretherton, alongside plenty of opportunities to catch up with colleagues and meet new people.
Here’s a look back at the three days:
Monday
Following a special time of opening worship, delegates were warmly welcomed by hosts, Bishop Andy and Jo Lees-Robinson (St Saviour’s Nottingham). Bishop Paul then shared reflections on ‘Moments of Wonder and Awe’, based on 2 Corinthians 5:19. He encouraged us to pray for a renewed sense of wonder and awe, allowing it to shape and deepen our worship and prayer for ourselves and our diocese.
He invited us to reflect on how we can grow in our wonder of who God is, rather than simply what He does for us, and to recognise the extraordinary privilege of being called to share the love of Jesus as Christ’s ambassadors.
Roger Bretherton then led two engaging and interactive sessions: ‘The Love of God Living Through Us’, reflecting on 1 Corinthians 13:1–3, and ‘What Does it Mean to Love?’, exploring verses 4-7.
Roger, a coach and clinical psychologist and a recognised authority in the study of character strengths, encouraged us to consider how learning to live in the love of God is also part of learning to lead. He reminded us that as we hand ourselves over to God, we become increasingly self-transcendent, turning our hearts towards Him and allowing His love to shape the way we live and lead.
Tuesday
Tuesday began with an optional Eucharist service, followed by Roger’s third session, ‘What Practices We Need to Love‘, exploring 1 Corinthians 13:3–7 and the practical nature of love.
“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
After a coffee break, delegates chose from five seminars: Holding Difficult Conversations Well, led by Maggie Ellis; Healthy Boundaries, led by Ben Slater; Being Your Own Coach, led by Astrid Korin; SLOW Leadership, led by Ben Evans; and Fueling the Fire, led by Jo and Jon Soper.
There was also time to rest, enjoy some fresh air, network and catch up with colleagues, as well as opportunities to chat with members of the central support team.
The day ended with optional evening worship in different styles. Contemplative Worship, led by Kristine Mole and Lianna Basdeo, offered a contemplative pilgrimage trail inspired by Walter Hilton, while Contemporary Worship was led by Tors Ramsey.
Wednesday
The final morning began with morning prayer and Roger’s final session, ‘Where Love Leads Us’, reflecting on 1 Corinthians 13:8–13. He encouraged us to look ahead to the tasks and responsibilities before us, seeing them as opportunities to live out God’s loving presence.
“Love never ends”
The conference concluded time for reflection led by Bishop Paul, followed by a final Holy Communion led by Kate Byrom, Head of Ministerial Development & Wellbeing.
A delegate remarked of the three days, “Just brilliant. I loved how the deep conversations were handled with such gentleness. I will be reflecting on the many things talked about here for a long time. I was also thrilled to go on a trail walk in that gorgeous Tuesday sun!”
It was a wonderful three days, and we’re already looking forward to next year’s conference! If you were there this year, what was your highlight? Get in touch to let us know here.
You can also access Roger’s Slides below: