Morning Worship – Communion

A beautiful and moving communion service by Rev. Cody Coyne and Rev. Daniel Costley, featuring Taizé singing, prayer and meditation.

Plenary IV

And in the midst of trying to eat breakfast and hastily check out of our rooms, we’re off to Plenary IV to debate the Emergency Motion. Following devotions led by Rev. Jim Corrigall, two of the twelve proposers of the motion on the government’s proposed Illegal Migration Bill 2023 spoke about why they felt the GA should take the following position:

1. The General Assembly of Unitarian and Free Christian Churches is  concerned that the provisions of the Illegal Immigration Bill will remove rights to protection in the UK for vulnerable adults and children seeking safe haven;
2. asks our Chief Officer to join with other Church Leaders in publicly opposing the Bill as it stands;
3. calls on Unitarian congregations and individuals to raise these concerns with their MPs before the 3rd Reading of the Bill on 25 April 2023;
4. calls on the British Government to establish safe and accessible routes for all those seeking asylum.

There were no views expressed against the motion, several (very powerful) arguments for it, and some neutral views asking for clarification on what action was expected linked to point 4. The motion was passed. It was not possible to discuss the report on the GA Governance Structures due to the absence of Robert Ince, but the Plenary did review the Stipend Review.

Bookstall and Exhibitions

I paid a brief visit to the book shop to pick up a copy of the newest Lindsay Press book, “Cherishing the Earth”, marvel at their selection, and feel guilty at not having read last year’s book selection. I also called into the Exhibition of stalls. It was good to see the societies represented, but also unfortunate that it was in a rather tucked-away room, perhaps next time the stalls can be somewhere easier to reach!  

Workshop – Rooted Ministry

Rev. Oscar Sinclair asked us to think about how we could draw on the strength of the cities and communities we are part of to strengthen our congregation and better serve the wider community. Many involved discussions ensued!

Plenary V and Closing Worship

We closed with the very important handover of the GA Presidency from Rev. Sue Woolley to Vince McCully, and our expression of thanks to Rev. Woolley for everything she has done for the movement as our Presidency. We closed with prayers and singing, and left feeling uplifted after three intense, but very worthwhile, days.