Choose wise stewards at comfortable venues
Church leaders looking for a centre to provide facilities for retreat, conferences and special events should consider The Venues Collection – ‘a hospitality model perfectly aligning with Christian values around stewardship, care for creation and social responsibility.’
That’s the view of Laurina Rushworth, director of faith for the five residential conference venues in the UK, including Yarnfield Park in Staffordshire and Kents Hill Park in Milton Keynes. The Venues Collection, exhibitors at CRE 25, offers spaces for churches, charities and Christian organisations to meet, learn and worship.
‘Yarnfield Park is centrally located in the Midlands and offers extensive grounds, peaceful settings and large-scale capacity, with rooms for up to 500 guests – making it the ideal venue for church weekends, training events or ministry gatherings,’ said Laurina. ‘Kents Hill Park in Milton Keynes, with excellent transport links, provides modern, accessible facilities supported by advanced, energy-saving technology and eco-conscious operations. Both sites maintain wildflower areas, beehives and wildlife habitats – demonstrating their care for God’s creation.’
The Venues Collection received a gold award for ‘Sustainability Award for Venues’ at the Conference & Event Awards 2025.
‘It is testament to the hard work and passion by the team, and reinforces the group’s commitment to deep decarbonisation, positioning them as a true pioneer in sustainable events,’ said Laurina.
- The Venues Collection are on stand D10 at CRE 25
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Sandown Park debut for The Miracle Meal
The Miracle Meal – a faith-centred brand dedicated to making communion simple, accessible and meaningful – will exhibit for the first time at CRE 25.
Specialising in pre-packaged, ready-to-serve communion cups, The Miracle Meal brings together both elements of communion – a fresh altar wafer and non-alcoholic grape juice – in one convenient, hygienic serving. Simply peel back the first seal to reveal the wafer, and a second seal to access the juice.
Founded by Dominic and Alidia Symes, The Miracle Meal was born from a place of faith and a desire to make sharing in communion effortless for churches and believers everywhere. What began as a simple idea has grown into a trusted global brand, with manufacturing in the USA and distribution reaching across the USA, UK, EU, Canada, South Africa and beyond.
‘We are a family-owned business with a big heart for daily, global encounters,’ said Dominic. ‘Our communion cups offer a thoughtful, spiritually sensitive, and environmentally considerate way to share in the Lord’s table – making preparation effortless, distribution safe, and participation truly inclusive. God has given our team the strength, courage, and wisdom to take this product global. Please keep our team in your prayers and remember Psalm 34:8 – ‘Taste and see that the Lord is good.’”
- The Miracle Meal are on stand C3 at CRE 25
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Let Nord hand you the keys to modern worship
We tracked down Matt Cossey, principal at Nexus ICA and musical director for renowned US artist Gloria Gaynor, to find out why those distinctive red keyboards have become such a staple in modern worship. They’re made by Nord – and Matt will demonstrate how your church can get the best from them on the Headline Audio/Nord stand at CRE 25
Matt, thanks for joining us! Tell us a little about your journey as a musician
Well, it’s been a wonderful journey of discovery – and continues to be. I’ve always loved how deeply music can connect and move us, and of course, believe it was God’s idea! So, when I learn more about music, I’m just discovering more about how its amazing author. This has been a big motivation in my musical journey, to recognise that music comes from God, and has the ability to point back to him. Whilst I’ve had some cool opportunities, I work hard to keep ‘trained and skilled in music for the Lord’ as my primary goal.
Nord keyboards are often seen as the ‘go-to’ in worship settings. Why do you think they’ve earned such a loyal following?
I get asked this a lot! For a more robust answer you could check out an article I wrote for Headline Audio, but briefly I think it largely connects to the desire in the church for excellence. Whilst I firmly believe worship is first and foremost something we offer from our hearts, churches more and more want to invest in quality equipment that will facilitate a great natural sound as well as a spiritual one. Nord keyboards have become almost synonymous with the current sound and standard in church worship production.
In a worship setting, what role does the keyboard play in creating the right atmosphere?
It is primarily the heart and inner posture of the musicians and leaders that set the right atmosphere, but instruments can back this up! In a worship setting the keyboard provides a solid bed to the sound. It holds down harmony, and with pads it is also great at ambient sounds that create a worshipful atmosphere. The ‘prayer pad’ may have become a bit of a cliché, but there’s something to be said for the way this constant warm sound helps focus our minds and hearts on Jesus.
From your experience, what sets Nord apart when it comes to sound and feel for worship musicians?
I personally love the sound because the instruments all have character. They are not too perfect but capture a ‘vibe’. Nords also excel in areas a church player is likely to require; great and diverse piano sounds and Eps, an amazing organ emulation, lush pads and powerful effects.
You’ve spoken before about ‘flow’ in worship. How does the Nord help you stay responsive and creative in the moment?
I’m always trying to respond to what is going on around me. What are the leaders saying? What are the musicians around me playing? I always want my sound to back this up, so I tweak and change my programs on the fly. Nords make this easy because pretty much everything you need is right in front of you. The many knobs and dials can be daunting, but for me they represent freedom and expression! Many other keyboards are menu based with touch screens – meaning that changing settings in a live environment is not quick or easy. I love how accessible and tactile Nords are. This really helps me flow creatively in a musical worship settin
Some
churches are cautious about investing in premium instruments. What would you
say to a worship leader considering a Nord?
Of course, I’m a
huge fan of Nord but wouldn’t lie and say they are for everyone. There are
definitely some contexts where they are probably unnecessarily complicated for
the demographic who will be playing them. However, I’d definitely
highlight the fact that Nords ‘age well’! A lot of people aren’t aware that
Nord release all their new piano samples as free downloads, so if you buy now
you can still update to the latest sounds when they are released.
How do you go about choosing or shaping your sounds for different worship styles or environments?
I have a number of programs saved ready for different contexts – mellow/intimate patches through to bright, energetic ones. It’s really easy to move between these patches without losing any flow (i.e. the sound doesn’t cut out when you change patch). I don’t necessarily try to imitate the sounds from the original but always want to serve the song and facilitate people in worship.
Do you have any favourite patches or sound setups that you find yourself going back to again and again?
Yes! I LOVE the Felt Upright for quieter, more intimate times – it’s lush and so beautiful to play. I also really love the Studio Grand 2. This is quite an old sample now but I love the dynamic range and the fact that it’s quite mellow in the low dynamics but brightens up and cuts through when you dig in. I also have my go-to Worship Palette. This program is set up to have all the most common things I want to access in a worship setting. In fact, if you head to Headline Audio you can download it for free (NS2,3&4) and watch a tutorial where I give some tips on how to get the best out of it.
Beyond the gear itself, how can worship keyboardists continue to grow – both musically and spiritually – in their role?
For me, being really comfortable behind my instrument facilitates so much. Being musically and technically confident frees up so much headspace to be listening and engaging with what’s going on around you. I’d always encourage people to keep investing in their craft; keep practicing and having lessons, work on your musical ear and the ability to play from chord charts, and make sure you prep well before serving. Then you can bring your whole self rather than just playing a part. This takes time and you might not be there yet (that’s fine!) but keep growing and stewarding your gifts so you can always offer God your best.
For someone visiting CRE and trying a Nord for the first time – what should they look for, and what makes this the right environment to explore it?
Exhibitions can be overwhelming, but they are also a rare opportunity to take dedicated time out to consider things that often get talked about in passing. My advice would be to head over to Headline Audio/Nord stand, take your time, ask lots of questions and spend time enjoying the instruments. If it is your first time trying a Nord it’s probably best not to try and figure it out by yourself, so make the most of the opportunity to speak with experts who really know the instruments. I’m around all day on Thursday (16 Oct) and will try and answer any questions visitors may have.
- Headline Audio/Nord are on stand U11 at CRE 25. They are the exclusive representatives of Nord in the UK and Ireland, offering a free five-year warranty, expert advice and support through their UK-based service centre
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Being wise about wine – for 160 years
Inclusivity in our worship services has always been a priority – now it’s time to think about the wines we use.
So say Frank Wright Mundy (FWM), supplier to churches across the UK for 160 years.
In the mid-1850s Mr Frank Wright and Mr Lionel Mundy (photographed) were concerned about the impact alcohol was having on the nation and decided to do something about it by producing a non-alcoholic wine for use by churches. Using his pharmacy skills, Mr Wright produced his first non-alcoholic communion wine in 1858.
World-renowned preacher CH Spurgeon was among many church leaders to commend the wine to their peers.
‘We are pleased to be continuing the work to this day,’ said FWM’s Tom Barnes. ‘As a family-run business, working in partnership with churches, we offer two varieties of wine and will offer further guidance at the exhibition.’
- Frank Wright Mundy are on stand L11 at CRE 25
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Let there be (cost-effective) light
The need for sensitive, cost-effective lighting and heating in churches has never been greater.
So says Ryan Slessinger, senior partner at CES Electrical and Lighting Specialists.
‘We bring deep expertise in ecclesiastical electrical design – creating tailored systems that respect a building’s heritage,’ he told CRE News. ‘Our approach supports the church’s mission and can transform worship and community spaces into places that feel both inspirational and welcoming.’
Working primarily in the south east, the company undertakes projects across all denominations and architectural styles. Recent lighting installations include St Andrew’s and St Cuthman’s, Steyning (founded 1080), St Mark’s, Biggin Hill (1955), and St Peter’s, Newdigate (12th Century).
Many churches with outdated or failing boilers are turning to modern electrical heating systems, which CES can also design and install.
‘Our bespoke radiant heat panels are tailored to your building, offering discreet yet effective warmth for your congregation,’ said Ryan. ‘For example, St Mary’s, Chalgrove, an ancient church, was warmed by radiant panels discreetly painted and installed between joists, providing gentle heat that complements the medieval architecture beautifully.’
After a project at Rochester Cathedral the cathedral’s chief operating officer, Simon Lace, said: ‘The creativity and innovation which CES brought to our project was impressive as was the flexibility and value for money.’
The company has extensive experience collaborating with DACs and other stakeholders to ensure clear communication and smooth project delivery.
- CES Electrical and Lighting Specialists are on stand E12 at CRE 25
Main photo: St Andrew’s and St Cuthman’s, Steyning, founded in 1080.
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Stones Hotel: where churches spend the night (and day) together
A trio of hotels are ideal for local churches wanting to take parties away for spiritual renewal or specialist meetings.
So says Preet Kalsi, cluster sales manager based at The Stones Hotel in Salisbury.
‘The Stones Hotel and The Holiday Inn in Wiltshire, along with The Delta Hotel, Milton Keynes, are excellent venues for a weekend of workshops or quiet spiritual reflection,’ she told CRE News. ‘Nestled in the glorious Wiltshire countryside, The Stones Hotel is surrounded by open landscapes and minutes from Stonehenge.’
The hotel provides a setting which encourages rest and togetherness for church groups looking to deepen their fellowship. With spacious, comfortable bedrooms, dedicated meeting spaces for up to 400 people and wholesome catering options, it is perfectly suited for residential retreats, prayer weekends, or leadership training. Convenient access to Salisbury Cathedral and local walking trails make it a popular choice for faith-based gatherings seeking inspiration and rest.
The Holiday Inn is located just off the A303 andoffers a welcoming base for church groups looking to gather, reflect and reconnect. Set just minutes from Stonehenge, the hotel combines modern comfort ‘with a calm and inspiring atmosphere.’
The Delta Hotel, situated at the edge of the bustling Milton Keynes, is ‘the ideal choice for churches wanting all the amenities and services needed to relax guests,’ said Preet. ‘With 138 bedrooms you can count on us to provide the comfort you need in rooms offering free WIFI, mineral water and a 49-inch TV. It can cater for up to 300 guests in event space with bespoke menus available. A fitness suite is available 24 hours a day.”
Representative will be at CRE 25 with information about all three centres and their special provision for church groups or individuals.
- The Stones Hotel and The Holiday Inn in Wiltshire, along with The Delta Hotel, Milton Keynes, are on stand D6 at CRE 25
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
OBT’s journey from pod to print
Amazon turn eBooks into audio books using AI voices – and it gave the Open Bible Trust’s Michael Penny a bright idea.
‘If they can turn eBooks into audio-books, couldn’t we turn our podcasts into eBooks and KDP paperbacks?’ thought Michael, OBT’s administrator and editor.
OBT have now four completed podcasts series: Wisdom in Proverbs, Looking at Luke, Exploring Ecclesiastes and Discussing Ephesians.
‘We were very pleased with the feedback on the Proverbs and Ecclesiastes podcasts,’ said Michael. ‘It is not an easy book to follow and often misunderstood. However, it is very much a book for today with its theme that everything passes and changes, so we decided that was the first one we would turn into a book. It has proved particularly popular.’
It was necessary to make minor modifications to the script, with the podcast format a discussion between three people.
‘Thankfully, basic colour printing has come down in cost,’ explained Michael. ‘So we used three different colours for the three different voices. It has worked well, maybe because, in a podcast, points must be made not only clearly and succinctly, but also briefly, before another voice comes in. In the book there are no long paragraphs which go into great detail and this enables people to grasp the essential teachings of Ecclesiastes in small bites which slowly build up – giving the bigger picture.’
The book is called The Ecclesiastes Dialogues and OBT have also published The Wisdom Dialogues, a discussion on Proverbs. Both books are available from Amazon either as paperbacks or eBooks. However, in time, the podcasts on Luke’s Gospel and the letter to the Ephesians will also become available as books.
- The Open Bible Trust are on stand F5 at CRE 25
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Turning children on to the danger of drugs
Staying safe is a key message for primary school children moving up to secondary school in the autumn.
Sarah Brighton, chief executive officer of CRE 25 exhibitor Hope UK, said: ‘Changing schools gives children a lot to learn, but may also introduce problems of a more serious nature.’
Four drug educators, working with the drug prevention charity Hope UK, have been teaching vital skills and knowledge to hundreds of children as part of an annual Safety Zones programme being run in Nottinghamshire this summer. The East Midlands Hope UK team have shared information about the risks of vaping, alcohol and other substances children are likely to come across. They have also showed them how to resist peer pressure.
‘Led by Ian Michell, our East Midlands project worker, the team of volunteers are highly skilled when it comes to delivering drug education,’ said Sarah. ‘They have a wealth of experience to offer.’
Former bed and breakfast landlady, Michelle Artherton, trained as a drug educator with Hope UK 15 years ago, when she realised it was a perfect complement to her voluntary activities helping to deliver school assemblies and running a Girls’ Brigade company in her local church. Many years of experience supporting children and families in schools and children’s centres led Maureen Miller to get involved with the team five years ago. Maureen trained as a drug educator because she wanted ‘to help young people understand the fears and risks they might encounter and how to keep themselves feeling safe and confident.’
The newest member of the team, Jacqueline Jamieson says she was ‘instantly hooked’ when she went along to observe a Hope UK drug awareness workshop at a primary school being led by Michelle.
‘Feedback from schools has been excellent,’ says team leader Ian. ‘The children have been very engaged and have had fun as well as learning a lot.’
Hope UK will be at CRE 25 to discuss local problems faced by church leaders or Christians working in difficult areas. Sarah Brighton will speak on Vaping and Young People (1.30pm, Wed 15 Oct) and Managing Drug Incidents in Youth Work (2pm, Thu 16 Oct).
- Hope UK are on stand C10 at CRE 25
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Where top class audio and aesthetic design meet and match
High performance audio quality in an aesthetic design – that’s the idea behind new speaker products to be displayed on the Creative Audio-Visual Solutions (CAVS) stand at CRE 25.
‘For decades, Electrovoice have designed and engineered leading-edge sound reinforcement solutions,’ said CAVS’ Rob Alvis. ‘Their new, cost-effective LRC (Line Radiator Columns) speakers are ideal for traditional church installations where aesthetics are vital, as well as full range audio. We are delighted to have them with us.
‘All their models provide carefully controlled vertical dispersion and smooth frequency response. Available in black and white (and paintable for further colour coding) they blend easily into their surroundings while providing exceptional all-round performance for main, delay or distributed sound reinforcement.’
Electrovoice’s sister company, Dynacord, will also show their new IX series of compact multichannel networked DPS amplifiers at CRE 25.
‘These are available in four and eight-channel versions with up to 6,000 watts in a 1u chassis size,’ said Rob. ‘On-board DSP provides equalisation, delay and crossover (along with matric mixer functions), negating the need for a separate audio processor. Dante audio networking features are standard on all models.’
CAVS are a dedicated church audio-visual integrator with the expertise and aesthetic sympathy to bring churches into the 21st Century with solutions covering sound/PA, visual (projection/displays), induction loop, networking/WiFi and service streaming.
- Creative Audio-Visual Solutions (CAVS) are on stand E17 at CRE 25
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Two football fans offer some stadium-sized deals
Christian bookshops are still able to offer great bargains.
That will be the message to CRE 25 visitors from the self-styled ‘Blues Brothers’ Barry Mockford and Dave Lock. Representing Canaan Christian Ministries from Staines and Oasis Christian Bookshop in Wallington, messrs Mockford and Lock will join forces again to demonstrate that independent Christian bookshops are still alive and kicking – often when churches are closed.
‘We want the public to know that, despite declining numbers, there are many hard-working people keeping alive a Christian presence on the high street,’ Barry told CRE News. ‘They often offer much more than a bookshop alone.’
Called the Blues Brothers because of their love for club world cup winners Chelsea FC, they will offer CRE 25 visitors ‘some stadium-sized bargains’.
‘We have a large selection of different books that will be at the special exhibition price of only £1,’ added Barry. ‘In addition, we will have many gifts from Just Cards and Teal Press, for example – plus exclusive baby blessing and throw blankets that will not only be at special exhibition prices but not available anywhere else – even online!’
CRE 25 visitors will also receive a 10 per cent discount voucher for use in both of their shops – and a free book!
- Canaan and Oasis Bookshops are on stand N6 at CRE 25
CRE 2025
Book your ticket to CRE 25!
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk