Liz, Church Engagement Officer, Single Friendly Church Network
“A ray of hope”
As a first timer to Forum my expectation was that it would be welcoming and friendly. This is because, through working for Single Friendly Church Network, I had already had such a positive experience of CTE from regular association Zoom meetings as well as with wonderful CTE staff.
The webinar for first timers reassured me that talking to new people would be the norm and listening to each other’s stories with open minds was on everyone’s heart. My anticipation was heightened!
Having now experienced CTE Forum, I can reflect that not only were the many individual interactions enriching and full of joy but the collective atmosphere in every gathering was life-giving and energising, as was the spring sunshine.
It was clear that the Holy Spirit was at work through our beautiful Christian unity.
The commitment to ecumenism of the organisers and the contributors shone through. The programme was a rich tapestry of praise, prayer, art, poetry, humour, research, opinion and belief all centred on our love for the Triune God and the hope we have in Jesus’ incarnation and resurrection.
I soaked in the wisdom from the speakers up front but such learning also came from every conversation I had, including on our stand in the marketplace. We are thankful to people’s willingness to hear about our work encouraging churches to welcome and value single people.
I have come away from this Forum full of hope in the glow of our ecumenical family, an essential part of God’s plan for the restoration and healing of all things.
Single Friendly Church Network is a Charity and Network in Association with CTE.
Asish, Churches Together in the Merseyside Region and the Mar Thoma Church in Europe
“A celebration of the body of Christ”
Attending the CTE Forum was an unforgettable experience! From the moment I arrived, I was struck by how warm, friendly, and welcoming everyone was. There was a real sense of togetherness. The Forum wasn’t just a gathering; it was a celebration of the body of Christ, a chance to learn, connect, and grow together. Throughout the event, I was reminded that when we focus on the things that unite us rather than what divides us, we grow stronger. We are better as one. Better together. And together, we can better serve our communities.
I joined two fantastic workshops: Intercultural Church and Weighing it up: Challenges of society as young ecumenists, both packed with fresh insights. I even got to share feedback on the topic social media and ecumenism, which was such an exciting discussion on how digital spaces can bring churches closer.
The keynote speakers were exceptional, covering compelling topics like Synodality, AI and the Church, Racial Justice, and the Pursuit of Unity. Each session left me with new insights and a deeper appreciation for the ways in which theology, technology, and social justice intersect within the church. The Bible study on the priesthood of all believers challenged me to reflect on our shared responsibility in faith.
Experiencing Taizé worship for the first time was deeply moving; the atmosphere, repetitive chants, and stillness created a profound sense of God’s presence. I loved visiting the marketplace stalls, discovering inspiring Christian organisations.
Most importantly, I made new friends that I know I will have for many years to come. The friendships formed during mealtime, deep conversations, and moments of prayer were a true testament to the power of coming together in Christ’s name.
This Forum taught me that Christian unity is something we must actively pursue. It’s about celebrating diversity while embracing our shared faith. I left with the hope that when we come together, we truly reflect the heart of Christ.
Find out more about Churches Together in the Merseyside Region and the Mar Thoma Church in Europe.
Main photo credit: Paul Seymour / Churches Together in England cte.org.uk