A dynamic, vibrant and enjoyable occasion

‘It was good to experience worship that was different and well done.’

‘John Bell’s presentation: The day job – calling and worship was very interesting. I like his way of presenting. He’s so easy to listen to, and never boring!’

‘Discussion groups were very good. It’s surprising how people come out with things I’d not thought of myself. I was able to see things from a different angle.’

‘Discussing in groups helped me to think more. It was interesting to discover what others were thinking and to let my own thoughts move along different lines.’

‘The Assembly was a great time of fellowship. I met new friends, but also saw many friends I have known now for quite a few years.’

‘The Assembly is a good way of meeting other preachers and worship leaders. It is always helpful to compare notes.’

‘The concert by the Swallownest United Churches Choir of South Sheffield was very entertaining, extremely good and well worth hearing… A brilliant choir!’

‘I enjoyed staying at a preacher’s home on the Saturday night. We’d never met before, but we’ve been in contact again since. We’ve struck up a friendship that wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t come.’

‘I enjoyed the fellowship – meeting people I’d not met before. I thought the event was well organised. I was also a host (and preacher on Sunday morning too), so I had an active weekend!

‘I was the worship leader for a service which was led by the minister in a big church in the Leeds District. It was a little bit daunting, coming from so far, but the minister made me welcome and was really accommodating. I opened the service, read a Bible passage and led prayers of intercession. There were kind comments after the service.’

‘I had a bus journey and a lift from a steward to a country chapel where I preached on the Sunday morning. On the return trip, as I waited for the bus, the heavens opened, so I came back very wet.’

‘It was raining for the prayer walk after lunch on Sunday. The minister of West Wakefield Methodist Church, Rev Richard Oldroyd, presented thoughts about people and their needs in various parts of the neighbourhood and we prayed for these people. That was such a positive experience that now, we too are considering doing a prayer walk in our own local area.’

‘I enjoyed the opportunity to sing hymns old and new, with Peter Relf at the piano. There is growing interest in writing new hymns where I come from. He may hear more from us!’

‘I particularly liked the final service, led by Rev Terry Keen and Ros Peedle, where the preacher Rev Dr Liz Smith – Chair of the Leeds District spoke about Hope.’

‘This was my first time at the Assembly. I was glad I went. More worship leaders will be coming from my area next year. I enjoyed it because it was all to do with service and the people were friendly.’

‘On the way to the Assembly we agreed this would be our last one. It was a long way from home. On the way back we agreed it had been so good – we’ll go again next year, although Bolton & Rochdale District is even further away!’