The Rev Canon Dr Stephen Cherry, Residentiary Canon of Durham Cathedral, Director of Ministerial Development and Parish Support in the Diocese of Durham, will be the speaker for this day on his recent publication, ‘Beyond Busyness’. The day aims to enable those in ministry to reflect on how they approach and the use the gift of time.

Open to: clergy, pastoral assistants, readers and evangelists.

This one day course is an introduction to the types of problems that people experience, who misuse drugs and/or alcohol or who suffer from some form of mental disorder.

You will be given an outline of these conditions and some guidelines as to how to help practically, as well as how to pray with those who suffer in this way. Information will also be given to help you look after yourself and to prevent burnout, which may be a possibility for those involved in this difficult work. There will also be case discussions of individuals who may present to churches with a range of different problems.

Led by Ros Oliver, the Rev Nick Read and Elizabeth Procter

A one-day workshop is available to equip Church Leaders to develop good ways of recruiting, training and motivating their volunteers. The workshop contains practical resources and plenty of inspiring ideas to enthuse and engage volunteers for the variety of roles and responsibilities in parishes today.

The aim of the day is to equip those in the roles of leadership in aspects like conflict and reconciliation, collaborative ministry and other themes related to leadership. Confirmed contributors are the Revs Brian Senior, Rev Sue Brooks, Rev Neville Emslie and Rev Trevor Gerhardt.

Open to: clergy, pastoral assistants, readers and evangelists.

“Inner healing is a process of emotional reconstruction experienced under the guidance of the Holy Spirit” - a quote by Ruth Stapleton Carter.  This one day course explores the biblical basis for inner healing, the possible causes of pain, what might create blocks to healing, the effects of unexpressed pain and anger and the need for forgiveness.  You will hopefully come away with a greater insight and depth in your understanding of those who you pray and minister to.

Led by the Rev Andrew Procter and Sarah Lacaille.

The aim of the evenings is to inspire fresh and creative Christmas liturgies to be used for families, messy church and other more traditional contexts as we approach the Christmas season. Contributors will be Rev Neil Thompson, Rev Robert Avery and Hilary Sutton.

Three 1 hour lectures over 3 days

Open to: clergy, pastoral assistants, readers and evangelists.