The Methodist Conference 2026 met in Telford from 25 June to 1 July, bringing together ministers and representatives from across the Connexion for worship, prayer, discussion and decision-making. As the governing body of the Methodist Church, Conference considered a wide range of reports that will help shape the Church’s life and mission in the years ahead.

Conference also welcomed the new President of the Methodist Conference, Revd Mark Slaney, and the new Vice-President, Caroline Stead, who will serve the Connexion during the 2026/27 Methodist year. We give thanks for their willingness to lead and pray that God will guide and strengthen them in this important ministry.

Among the key themes discussed during Conference were the Church’s continuing commitment to justice, dignity and solidarity, progress towards environmental sustainability, the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence, the development of predominantly online churches, ecumenical relationships with the Church of England, and the ongoing renewal of Methodist worship and mission.

A highlight of Conference each year is the Reception into Full Connexion and the Ordination Services, where those called to ordained ministry are welcomed into their covenant relationship with the Methodist Conference before being ordained as presbyters and deacons. This year, the Church celebrated the ordination of new presbyters and deacons, giving thanks for God’s continuing call to ministry across the Connexion.

Congratulations to Our Newly Ordained Presbyters

We are especially delighted to celebrate two ministers with close connections to our Circuit.

Congratulations to Revd Ian Bryon, who completed his ministerial training with us in BSGC, and Revd Jimmy Cullingford of the Gloucestershire Circuit, on their ordination as presbyters.

We give thanks to God for their calling and pray that He will bless and sustain them in their ministry. May they know God’s grace, wisdom and strength as they serve Christ and His Church.

Congratulations, Ian and Jimmy! You remain in our prayers as you begin this new chapter of ministry.

If you would like to explore the reports, decisions and worship from this year’s Conference, they are available on the Methodist Church website.