Derek Estill, one of the Moderators of the United Reformed Church (URC) General Assembly, tells of his moderatorial adventures in January

For me, Epiphany and the new year season always brings thoughts of new beginnings and realisations. Little did I know that January would see me translate those thoughts into action, and grant me further gratitude for new beginnings.

New ministry

I was pleased to represent our church-related community work (CRCW) committee at the commissioning of a new CRCW minister in early January. This new minister, Jo Patterson, will serve in a local ecumenical partnership of the URC and the Church of England in Peckham, southeast London. Having completed her CRCW training, Jo accepted the invitation from Copleston Church Centre to work alongside Anglican Priest in Charge, the Revd Edward Collier. Copleston is a very busy church community centre serving a diverse community of people in many ways.

It was a joy to be able to be at this important occasion, and to be able to sign the church’s important covenant document, with others, at the beginning of what I am sure will be a very busy and exciting new ministry for Jo, with many epiphany moments. What a great way to begin 2019!  Continue reading →

The Revd Nigel Uden, one of the Moderators of the United Reformed Church (URC) General Assembly, says that in this time of continued division, the Church must continue to be a place for renewal and reconciliation.

As the United Kingdom continues to negotiate its way out of the European Union, I cannot help but feel a growing concern about the impact of the process upon our equilibrium – as individuals and as a community.

In recent sermons I have referenced Ann Morisy’s book, Bothered and Bewildered (2011), in which she uses the phrase ‘irritable and fragmenting’. That’s what it often feels like.    Continue reading →

Derek Estill, one of the Moderators of the United Reformed Church (URC) General Assembly, reflects on his duties as Moderator as 2018 came to an end

November was the month when we remembered the sacrifices made during all conflict and war and it is right and proper that we pay homage to those who gave all to keep us safe.

I had the great privilege of representing our church at the Remembrance Sunday ceremony at the Cenotaph then the service in Westminster Abbey to mark the centenary of the Armistice.

The service in Westminster Abbey was both moving and memorable and those of us representing different faiths had a privileged position close to the High Altar on the north side of the Central Nave.

As faith leaders we were about four rows from the front facing close to where the Queen and other members of the Royal family were seated.  Continue reading →