Items filtered by date: April 2026
Upcoming in-person events
We have a number of events for licenced clergy and those who offer a preaching ministry in the diocese:
Women in Ministry Day
This session is for female clergy.
Wednesday 6 May, 10am to 3pm
St Alkmunds Church, Kedleston Road, Derby
Light refreshments will be available but do please remember to bring your own lunch. Book your place here.
Working with Teams, led by Rev Nicky McGinty
This session is for all licenced clergy.
Tuesday 19 May, 10am to 4pm
St Barnabas Centre, Pilsley Road, Danesmoor, Chesterfield
Working in churches often involves team working. Our focus for this day is how can we create, build and develop teams so that they are effective. We will also explore ways to respond when teams are not working well. This will be a blend of theory, practice and theology to help us improve our ability to collaborate well. Nicky is a highly experienced trainer, consultant, facilitator, coach and reflective supervisor based in Leicestershire.
She is a self-supporting priest in the diocese of Leicester and an honorary canon of Leicester Cathedral.
Light refreshments will be available but do please remember to bring your own lunch. Book your place here.
Trauma-informed Ministry: Moving forward in a changed world, led by Rev Tim Treanor
This session is for all licenced clergy.
Tuesday 7 July, 10am to 3.30pm
St Barnabas Centre, Pilsley Road, Danesmoor, Chesterfield
Participants will explore: Physically responses to trauma, chronic stress, anxiety and conflict; The impact of trauma on communities and organisations; How churches might respond in considered, creative and sustainable ways; Where God is in all of this.
Rev Tim Treanor accompanies ordained ministers as a pastoral supervisor, facilitator of Reflective Practice Groups and Spiritual Director. Influences on his practice include serving as a Team Rector, Ignatian spirituality, group analysis and contemplative prayer
Light refreshments plus lunch will be available. There is space for 12 to 18 participants which will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Book your place here.
Preaching the Lectionary - Mark, led by Rev Amy Hole
These sessions are for all who offer a preaching ministry in the Diocese of Derby.
Monday 2 November, 7pm to 9pm
Online via Zoom
Tuesday 3 November, 2.00pm - 4.30pm
St Johns Walton, Walton Back Lane, Chesterfield
Rev Amy Hole is Vicar of Christ Church Heeley in central Sheffield, serving a large parish with considerable socio-economic needs. The church is racially diverse, with a range of ages, and is broadly low evangelical in worshipping style. Alongside parish ministry, and serving as area dean, Amy is also an Associate Tutor at St Hild College, where she currently teaches New Testament Greek, Preaching, and Reflective Practice, and she writes Bible notes for Scripture Union.
The session is offered on line via zoom or in person please complete a booking form according to your preference. Book the online session here or book the in person session here.
How to Lead a Church where Discipleship Thrives, led by Matt Hogg CPAS
This session is for all licenced clergy.
Tuesday 2 February, 10am to 4pm
St Barnabas Centre, Pilsley Road, Danesmoor, Chesterfield
This training day equips leaders to embed discipleship and formation into everyday church life. We’ll explore simple rhythms, practices, and culture-shaping influences that can help people move from spiritual curiosity to lasting commitment, growing deeper in their faith and trust in Jesus over time.
Light refreshments will be available but do please remember to bring your own lunch. Book your place here.
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Training Opportunities within the Diocese
Ministry Mondays
An hour long online workshop on the third Monday of every month 1-2pm. We shall discuss a range of topics that are pertinent to parish life. We shall advertise events three months in advance so do keep checking to see what is coming up.
Join the Ministry Mondays sessions here
How to Use AI in Ministry
led by James Lawrence from CPAS
Monday 20 April, 1pm to 2pm
Online via Zoom
We hear so much about AI. Some see it as their 'saviour' (it isn't!), others as leading to the apocalypse (it won't). We'll explore practical ways to use AI in ministry that will utilise AI as a contributor to your leadership. No knowledge of AI needed. Sceptics welcome!
All things young people
Monday 18 May, 1pm to 2pm
Online via Zoom
A chance to meet the new Diocesan Lead for Growing Younger and the wider Growing Younger.
Following St Francis of Assisi: lessons for everyday ministry
led by Simon Cocksedge and Brother Samuel SSF
Monday 15 June, 1pm to 2pm
Online via Zoom
The 800th anniversary of Francis' death is 4 October 2026. In this session, Br Samuel SSF [Franciscan friar] and Simon Cocksedge [Third Order Franciscan] will each offer brief presentations considering how this significant Franciscan date might be used in everyday ministry this autumn. There will also be time for discussion and sharing of ideas.
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The Parish Accessibility Fund offered through the Disability Project aims to help parishes to enhance accessibility and inclusion for those who are Deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent.
Having rolled out this scheme initially to parishes in the Northern Dioceses, we are pleased to now be able to open this welcome grant-funding to parishes in the Province of Canterbury. Parishes will be able to apply for funding for small projects with a grant of up to £5000, or larger works with a grant value of up to £50,000.
Small projects might include ideas such as implementing a new supportive group for disabled people, improving signage and imagery with inclusivity in mind, enabling dementia-friendly church, or perhaps training for staff, volunteers and congregations.
Larger projects could include structural alterations to buildings, installing technology such as a hearing-aid loop, purchasing appropriate seating, redesigning the height of surfaces/information boards, providing large-print resources and so much more.
You should consider 3 key things in order to make a strong application to the fund:
- Does our church building have a Completed Accessibility Audit.
- Have those with personal experience of disabilities been consulted in designing the project or scheme
- Are the main beneficiaries of the project or scheme, those who are disabled and/or neurodivergent
You can read more about Accessibility in church buildings here.
The application form and guidance documents can be accessed and downloaded from the Diasabilities Project Resources page at this link.
For any questions or to find out more, please email the Disability Project Team.
There is also other helpful information and advice available on the Disability Inclusion Page of this website
Following the incident in Derby city on Saturday 28 March where several people were struck by a vehicle, the Bishop of Repton and the Dean of Derby have issued the following statements:
"The incident in Derby city last night has shaken us all. We like to think of our city as a safe place for everyone.
"Our prayers at Derby Cathedral and in churches across the Diocese of Derby today are with those injured and with all those who witnessed what happened.
"We pray also for those receiving treatment in hospital. May God bring peace and healing to our city today."
Rt Rev Malcolm Macnaughton, Bishop of Repton
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"I was deeply shocked to hear overnight of the incident in Friar Gate. The thoughts and prayers of the Derby Cathedral community are with all those who have been injured and for the emergency services who are caring for all affected by this tragic event."
Very Rev Peter Robinson, Dean of Derby
Derby Diocesan Synod met for its 148th session this month at St John’s Walton near Chesterfield.
Gathering together in unity
Peter Kelsey, Chair of the House of Laity, began by welcoming people to the meeting, giving particular acknowledgement to the fact that this was the final meeting that Rt Rev Malcolm Macnaughton, Bishop of Repton, would be attending. Peter also mentioned that it was the last meeting that Amanda Shreeve would facilitate before she leaves her post at the DBF this April. He expressed thanks to both on behalf of Synod members.
After the customary housekeeping notices and the noting of apologies for absence (28 laity and 12 clergy), Peter invited representatives from Peak Deanery to lead us in morning prayer.
Rev Fiona Kouble, from St John the Baptist in Tideswell, led a reflective time of worship, drawing on the words of Psalm 31, inviting synod to join in the refrain ‘into your hands I commend my spirit’. We also joined in a sung version of the Lord’s prayer to the melody of Kum By Yah – setting the meeting in a context of prayer and the continued presence of God.
Presidential address – reasons to be thankful
After worship, Peter invited Bishop Malcolm to give the presidential address.
Malcolm began by commenting that it had been the first sunny day for some weeks after a period of unsettled weather during February and early March, set against the international context of uncertainty and turmoil brought about by the US-Israel led conflict in Iran. He commented that these divisions are sadly reflected in our communities and even in our church, and of the need for continued prayer into these situations.
While there is uncertainty, Malcolm reminded us that we have things to be thankful for, and that the following Sunday was Laetare Sunday, a moment part way through the season of lent where we can break fast and celebrate God’s provision.
Inviting synod members to write down what they are thankful for on pink paper appropriate for the Laetare moment, Malcolm shared what he was especially grateful for in our diocese. He referenced the life and enthusiasm of Messy Church in Repton, new growth in the congregation at St Edmund’s Shelton Lock and the continued expansion of the Monday evening football outreach led by St Francis’ Mackworth. He expressed gratitude for the clergy who have already been through the Launchpad series, and for those on the current cohort learning how to reach young people in contexts where this sort of ministry has not been done before. He mentioned the innovative work that is pending in our schools, following funding from the national church, around racial justice and encouraging greater connections and conversation between people from different backgrounds. He celebrated the fact that we have four times more licenced clergy from global majority backgrounds than we had five years ago. Malcolm also gave thanks for the recently renewed ambition for greater international links with partner dioceses in Burundi, India and Canada.
Malcolm shared some of his personal moments of gratitude, in particular the privilege he had of confirming many people. He recounted some of the testimonies that he had heard: ‘the church has become my refuge’, others describing the ‘joyous love of God’, and yet another sharing that they had ‘found healing’.
The Accessibility Symbols project led by the Disability Inclusion and Action Group (DIAG) was highlighted as work that Malcolm was proud of on behalf of our diocese, especially now that it has expanded to the national ‘A Church Near You’ portal.
He also referenced the work we do across the diocese to challenge injustice; the tragedy of the need for foodbanks but the beacons of light and hope that they provide for the most vulnerable people in our communities. He noted too the work that we have done towards lowering our carbon footprint.
Malcolm concluded his address by pointing to the coming conclusion of his own public ministry – that he was doing so with a mixture of joy and sadness, but also with an assuredness of God’s presence in the world amidst times of struggle and pain. His final challenge to us was simple: ‘be strong and let your hearts take courage’.
His address was met with applause.
Finance strategy update
The minutes of the 147th meeting of synod, also held at St John’s, were approved. This was followed by an update from Will Hagger, Diocesan Secretary, about the newly-formed Financial Strategy Group. Will shared the remit of the group and a little about the context in which we find ourselves as a diocese, in particular the run of deficit budgets over recent years, the falling trajectory of common fund contributions from parishes, and the challenges associated with accessing Diocesan Investment Programme (DIP) funding.
The group has only met once so far, but has clear objectives to work towards: to return the DBF to a balanced budget over five years, to increase church’s financial health (and thereby grow common fund capacity), and to look at sustainable efficiencies in clergy and DBF costs.
There were no questions.
Living in Love and Faith – any next steps
After noting and considering the written question and answers item on the agenda, Peter ceded the chair to Brain Parker, lay chair of South East Derbyshire Deanery, who hosted the discussion on Living in Love and Faith (LLF). This included an update on the consultation with separate Houses of Diocesan Synod on LLF, and follow up on the decisions of General Synod in February responding to the House of Bishops Statement on Living in Love and Faith.
The discussion began with group members with different points of view on LLF sharing their reflections on the format and tone of their discussions. These reflections were mainly positive: there was space to engage constructively with each other, a recognition of the nervousness and anxiety around being vulnerable in conversations of a sensitive topic, but also an appreciation of the respect shown and the desire to find common ground.
A positive challenge was shared by one of the speakers: ‘Don’t be scared to engage with others who may have different point of view.’
Rev Gary Weston, Priest in Charge of St Thomas and St Mark Brampton, then led synod in the discussion of a couple of questions, set in the context of feedback from both the House of Laity and House of Clergy. Gary shared two word clouds (from each house respectively) which highlighted peoples’ feelings about the conversations around LLF
Synod were asked to consider two questions in light of this discussion:
- Would Synod like the Consultation Group to work through how we might have a facilitated conversation, as Synod, to share the hurt and distress we feel and to explore behaviours that we would want to exhibit as Synod members as we discuss this and other challenging matters?
- Does Synod feel that the offer of a facilitated conversation would be helpful in other areas of Diocesan life, such as at Deanery level (Both Synods and Chapter) and at the Clergy Conference?
The results were captured via a digital Slido poll, indicating an affirmative answer to question one, but less enthusiasm for question two. Synod recognised that not everyone would have had the opportunity to take part in the digital poll and that these results were indicative only.
This part of the agenda concluded with some questions around process: were the pastoral principles of LLF considered during the consultation – to which the answer was yes; and also a question around clarity around the remit of LLF – to which synod was directed to the House of Bishop’s statement. Some specific resources for facilitating healthy yet challenging conversations in a church context were promoted, specifically the Difference course that has recently been released by the Church of England.
After this synod adjourned for a coffee break.
Social isolation – a motion to debate
The second half of Synod was chaired by Rev Nicola McNally, who invited Matt Barnes, Director of Mission, Evangelism and Parish Revitalisation, to introduce a debate on a motion from, Peter Kelsey of Carsington deanery, to combat social isolation.
The motion was welcomed almost universally by synod, with several comments from members to draw out specific themes and challenges. The need for objectivity in assessing the need, thinking long-term and seeing the big picture was raised by Peter Robinson, Dean of Derby. Others drew on examples of people who experience social isolation who may not immediately come to mind ranging from victims of domestic violence to refugees and asylum seekers. Synod was encouraged not to forget the missional outcome of contexts of social and economic deprivation, and not to divert funds away from equally important aspects of our work. There was also a plea to involve people who experience loneliness in the design of any projects or interventions; to ‘do with’ rather than ‘do to’ people who are isolated in their communities.
The motion was carried, with these comments noted.
Final business
Synod received and noted regular reports including notices and updates around elections and appointments to committees.
Bishop Libby shared an overview of the process for appointing a new Bishop of Repton once Bishop Malcom retires from office. She explained that filling the vacancy was not automatic and that a case needed to be made to the Dioceses Commission. Libby invited comments and feedback that might shape the role profile and job description for the see to be sent through to her office. Bishop Libby also sought the views in principle that recruitment to the vacancy for Bishop of Repton be sought. Most of synod indicated their support, with one person voting against.
The final piece of business was an amendment to Canon law which was shared verbally as per Church of England governance practice: ‘Amending Canon No. 44 amends Canon C 8 to include provision for the exercise of ministry by Armed Forces chaplains’
Synod adjourned earlier than the expected time of 1pm, but will meet again on Saturday 13 June at St Werburgh’s, Derby.
Growing a Younger Church Conference - Saturday, 6 June 2026 from 10am - 4pm.
The conference is tailored to clergy, paid or voluntary leaders, and helpers who want to be equipped and encouraged in their children’s and youth ministry.
A full day of teaching and learning, and chance to connect with others.
Discover practical, creative approaches to discipling Gen Alpha and making church life welcoming and accessible for every child.
Hear how to begin new worshipping communities for young people, learn to run retreat days for your local primary schools, and explore much more.
Secure places for yourself and others today!
Find out more and sign up - https://bit.ly/GYC2026
Visit a Religious House in Person
Anyone can visit a Religious House as a guest by prior arrangement whether for a few nights or even just for half a day. This will include being invited to join the community in their corporate prayer. It may also include eating with the Sisters or Brothers.
>> Find a Religious House near you
Attend a Religious Vocation Event in Person or Online
Throughout the year all kinds of “Zoom hangouts” and Monastic Taster Days take place around the country to help those wishing to find out more about Religious Life.
The easiest way to stay aware of upcoming events is to subscribe / check the Anglican Religious Life Project X feed
Other Valuable Resources
>> The Anglican Religious Life Project website
>> The Anglican Religious Life Directory
Derby Cathedral has launched a search for a new Head Verger, offering an exciting opportunity for a skilled and motivated leader to play a central role as the Cathedral approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027.
This pivotal position comes at a transformative moment in the Cathedral’s story. The successful candidate will help shape the next chapter of a historic and much‑loved institution, supporting major events, growing visitor numbers, and ambitious development projects.
The Head Verger will lead the Cathedral’s Vergers and Facilities team, ensuring the smooth and dignified delivery of worship, events, and daily operations. Working closely with clergy, staff, and volunteers, the role is key to maintaining the Cathedral’s reputation for welcome, hospitality, and high‑quality visitor experience.
Derby Cathedral welcomes applications from current Vergers and Deputy/Head Vergers, as well as experienced managers from heritage, hospitality, operations, or similar settings.
