Conference 2005 - A Sense of Awe and Wonder

The Network recently held its second annual Conference at All Saints Church, Crowborough, East Sussex. 120 delegates attended from Tunbridge Wells and a wider area beyond. The main speaker was Janet Gaukroger. She is a regular speaker at Spring Harvest and married to the Baptist Pastor and international speaker Stephen Gaukroger.

Other speakers included Vicki Howie, author of Christian resources on storytelling and Richard Watts who runs 'Daddy and Me' a Saturday morning toddler group session once a month ('with 'real' coffee and bacon rolls'!) for Dads and Grandads and their youngsters. ('Mums can have a 'lie in that day' and some time to themselves'!!!)

Afternoon seminars included 'Listening as we support families', 'Godly Play', 'Creative expression for tots' and storytelling. It was an opportunity to reflect on our groups we run, the vision and to be refuelled... a really positive day.

'It was a day of blessings for many' says Claire who sees the role of groups like Tots & Co as important aspect in growing Church today. 'We realise that each group is unique and serving their families in special ways. Not only do we aim to provide a warm welcome, clean toys and coffee, but most importantly, the best message - that God loves us. It is important to remember that approximately 75% of Parent Toddler groups are run by Churches.'

Claire explains that the Conference acts as a catalyst, inspiring others further afield and helping people with a shared vision in this Ministry to meet and encourage each other. The smaller, regular lunchtime meetings for local groups continue in Tunbridge Wells every other month. 'We pray that other networks for prayer will start up in other towns.'

The network started when Claire & Gaynor realised the value of getting together to pray and encourage each other. 'We decided to offer an opportunity for others to come and meet each other so we published a meeting, put the kettle on and then waited! That was three years ago and a small number has now grown to support an annual conference!

'Its easy to put on the kettle and meet in small groups to share and pray. This is a growing aspect of Church Ministry and Outreach. The 'Daddy and Me' type sessions are also gaining popularity with other churches. It is exciting to hear about these groups.'