It was a great experience to spend 2 1/2 days at College House this week sharing in our annual Clergy Conference.

I particularly appreciated being back worshipping in the newly restored Chapel after 45 years! And enjoyed the art works of the Alex Baird Collection of Contemporary Art as we made full use of the site. We had a State of the Diocese address from Bishop Peter on Monday, then he led us in retreat on Tuesday, during which I enjoyed a nostalgic walk through the Ilam Fields and Staff Club! Wednesday we had sessions on reaching Millennials (those now aged 27-41), and Children & Young People. We heard about Change Leadership and Digital Mission, had an excellent critique of our Diocesan Mission Action Plan from Chris Clarke, and heard about Mark Chamberlain’s whistlestop trip to the UK checking out fresh expressions of church. Andrew and I have come back a bit weary but refreshed and energised too!