Why unity does not have to mean uniformity
Currently celebrating its 40th year, the Open Bible Trust is promoting one of its most important books at next week’s CRE 24 – Unity in Christ.
Written by W M Henry and Michael Penny, one reviewer stated: ‘If a Scottish Baptist and a Welsh Salvationist can work together on a book about Christian unity, and allow an Anglican to design the cover, there is hope for the church!’
The first part of the book, written by Henry, majors on ‘oneness’, and Jesus’ prayer for his disciples ‘that they may be one as we are one’ (John 17:11). He also describes various pictures of ‘oneness’ given by the Lord. The word ‘unity’ only occurs twice in the Bible, both in Ephesians. The first, ‘The unity of the Spirit’ (Ephesians 4:3) is a God-given, God-created unity which Christians are told to keep or guard. The basis of this unity is that when we believe the gospel of salvation, we are sealed with the Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14).
Michael, who has been chair of Churches Together in Reading for 14 years, said: ‘I am a great believer in unity, but not uniformity. People like different types of Christians music, different postures for prayer, different translations of the Bible. However, these differences are not deficiencies. They add to the rich diversity there is in Christianity. If we believe that Jesus is our Saviour, he binds us together and we are one in the Spirit. If we can love one another as he loves us, that may be the answer to his prayer that ‘they may be one as we are one.”’
Michael was one of a team of eight which launched the Open Bible Trust and was its first administrator and editor before moving to America in 1991 to pastor a church. He returned to the UK in 1999 and in 2007 took up the reigns of administrator and editor of the mission again.
He will speak at CRE 24 on ‘The good, the better and the best from the book of Ecclesiastes’ (12.30pm, Thu 10 Oct). More here.
• The Open Bible Trust are on stand A21 at CRE 24
Main photo: Open Bible Trust will promote their book Unity in Christ at CRE 24
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
From morning song to Mamma Mia: deep dive into the church and music at CRE 24
Music in churches has always been a contentious issue – should it be a ‘one style must fit all’ or are there ways of incorporating multiple cultures and tastes?
Seasoned musical composer and worship leader Roger Jones will cover the vexed question at CRE 24, alongside colleague Devon Brown, in Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual songs (2.30pm, Wed 9 Oct).
‘We’ll look at biblical quotes and principles and illustrate it all in various styles, asking what essentials must be maintained or aimed at,’ said Roger. ‘People grow by what they sing, so how can we ensure they receive a healthy diet?’
He will also look at how different styles can be integrated into a typical Sunday morning service.
On Thursday (2pm), Roger and Devon will turn their attention from morning song to Mamma Mia – and the use of musicals in mission and evangelism.
‘Musicals with a biblical theme can be a major tool for reaching people with the Gospel, as well as an effective in-reach for the church community,’ said Roger, who has written 25 in his career, the latest on the story of Zacchaeus. He will look at what constitutes a classic musical and how the genre has developed over the years.
‘I’ll also cover what may be achieved through staging a musical and who can be involved, with a special reference to the final message,’ he said. ‘Should we leave the musical to speak for itself, make an appeal – or finish with a spoken message?’
Main photo: Mamma Mia: the musical
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Freestyler Dan to get CRE 24 ball rolling
As a child, Daniel Cutting was praised by his father for doing 100 ‘keepie uppies’ – and it only encouraged him to go for more!
‘I would push myself, and even at a young age would practise for longer than my friends,’ the professional football freestyler told CRE News. A perfectionist by nature, his finely-honed skills will be evident when he opens CRE 24 (10 am, Wed 9 Oct).
He thought of becoming a physical education teacher but as his skills developed, he decided to make a career out of freestyling – currently holding 10 world records for juggling with a football.
Now 37, and married with two children aged five and two, he entertains crowds galore with his half-time performances. He has also performed for school children at assemblies – especially those with learning difficulties – and inmates of a high security prison in South Africa. Then there are the TV adverts for companies such Adidas and Hyundai.
His world records include the fastest 100 metres sprint balancing a football on his forehead, and the longest time controlling the ball on his chest. He has stood in for stars such as David Beckham and Steven Gerrard when filming special effects.
A member of a local church in Milton Keynes, where he and his wife run a youth group for 20 or so young people, Daniel said: ‘I am particularly excited when I can do events in a Christian setting, using my gift to glorify God.’
Steve Goddard, owner of CRE and a football fan, said: ‘I am not quite sure how Daniel will open the show but I guarantee it will be entertaining and yet another first for us and Daniel!’
Main photo: Football freestyler Daniel Cutting will open CRE 24
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
New module launched to ease church safeguarding admin
A brand-new module to help churches with their safeguarding administration will be launched at CRE 24 by iKnow Church.
More than 10 months in the making, the tools include:
- Manage concerns – Users can record information and manage different stages of concern as well as uploading supporting documents and controlling access to the information. An unlimited number of notes and attachments can be added to each concern.
- DBS – All information is managed in one place – with alerts when a DBS refresh is due. Supporting documents can be uploaded along with custom information.
- Risk Assessments – These can be created and future dates set if re-assessment is required.
- Custom Fields – Custom information can be added to both concerns and DBS.
Safeguarding information is kept separate from other church data ensuring that only the right people have access. Restricted access can also be given to key areas of the Safeguarding module.
‘The team have worked hard to develop this important module,’ said iKNow Church’s Kyle Cottington. ‘We have already had great feedback when showing the software to organisations and look forward to launching it at CRE 24.’
A spokesperson for Thirtyone:eight, also exhibiting at the CRE, said: ‘The effective management of data is an essential part of creating safer places. A good platform for doing this is therefore critical to ensure data informs safe practice. We encourage any setting to consider the value such a system can bring to their safeguarding arrangements.’
iKnow Church will also launch their new software design after the company’s biggest rebrand in more than 10 years.
• iKnow Church are stand F1 at CRE 24
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
MomentumYes: igniting passion for global mission
A free, online video course is revolutionising how believers engage with the Great Commission.
Developed by an ordinary US church passionate about reaching the unreached, MomentumYes offers a discipleship journey through six engaging sessions. Adopted and adapted by a collaboration of UK mission agencies, the course challenges participants to rethink their perspective on the Bible, missions – and their own identity as followers of Christ.
‘Within weeks of running courses we had participants starting up their own groups,’ said Simon Patrick, head of communications at Frontiers. ‘It is perfect for any church looking to deepen its discipleship and practically engage with the Great Commission, both with our neighbours and to the nations.’
At its core, MomentumYes, part of Mission on the Map at CRE 24, emphasises that every Christian has a vital part to play in God’s mission. Whether through going overseas, sending others, mobilising the church, or reaching out to diverse cultures locally, believers are equipped to find their unique role, the course combines compelling video teaching with thought-provoking discussion questions and hands-on activities. Participants are encouraged to pray for unreached people groups and explore tangible ways to engage in cross-cultural ministry.
Ideal for churches, small groups and individual study, participants gain a renewed vision for mission and discover practical steps to integrate God’s global purpose into every aspect of their lives. More than a course, it’s a catalyst for a lifestyle of mission, inspiring Christians to say ‘yes’ to God’s momentum in reaching every nation, tribe and tongue.
• MomentumYes are on stand P46 at CRE 24
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Rev Simo: How I lost a letter and gained a calling
Being neurodivergent is a gift from God and brings about creative ideas.
So says Rev Simo (aka Rev Simon Faulks), an Anglican vicar with a passion for sharing stories about God – and a first-time exhibitor at CRE 24.
‘We are all made in the image of a creative God and that takes many different forms,’ he says. ‘Neurodivergents often have a very creative outlook. My own experience with dyslexia and ADHD means life is not always easy and it certainly wasn’t growing up, but it has brought about many of my ideas. I am keen, therefore, to encourage others who are neurodivergent – and to help the church support both the participation and ministry of others who don’t always fit the typical mould.’
Rev Simo stepped down from his role as rector of five parishes in 2022 and began to establish Not Ashamed. He also serves part-time as assistant minster at St Mary’s, Bletchley and provides cover to other local churches.
The name Rev Simo came about when, at a youth work conference, the ‘n’ got missed off his name badge!
With more than 25 years’ experience in ministry, he has always looked for ways to use his interest in circus and illusion in ministry.
‘It naturally developed into storytelling,’ he explains. ‘I realised I was telling stories and using these other elements to help illustrate them. “I am not ashamed of the Gospel” (Romans 1:16) is my prayer for life and ministry.’
He will highlight two areas of ministry at CRE. Firstly, a discipleship workshop called Enter the Story that can be used as a tool for sermon preparation, RE Lessons and home groups. Some have taken it on as a way of exploring the stories of the Bible. Secondly, an all-age-friendly evangelistic storytelling show called Strange but True.
‘I love to be able to work with churches and schools in creative ways and I’m looking forward to meeting people at CRE 24,’ he says, ‘to talk over the various ways I believe I can help them make the gospel more dynamic and accessible to all ages.’
• Not Ashamed (and Rev Simo) are on stand C41 at CRE 24
Main photo: First-time CRE exhibitor Rev Simo
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Pew, what a scorcher! Heated cushions for your chilly church
One CRE 24 exhibitor will make sure churches give a warm welcome to visitors – and contribute to the Church of England commitment to achieve carbon net-zero status by 2030.
Sit & Heat has partnered with the church to supply sustainable heated cushions for chairs and pews to more than 40,000 churches throughout the country.
Anthony Gerard, who has worked for more than 30 years with designers, architects, catering organisations and building promotors all over the world, is the UK agent for the cushions which are made in the Netherlands.
‘They are ideal for cathedrals and churches with chairs or historic pews requiring preservation,’ he explained. ‘They deliver direct warmth to individual parishioners, providing a “green” heating alternative without the need for conventional heating throughout the whole building.
‘The cordless, rechargeable cushions feature both battery-powered and fixed-wire options and are designed to fit any seating arrangement. They are equipped with individual controls and smart sensors, automatically activating and deactivating to conserve energy – with a significant reduction in heating bills.
‘With endorsements from King Willen Alexander of the Netherlands, and the Church of England, Sit & Heat has received commendable recognition, demonstrating a significant alignment with energy and environmental stewardship at the highest levels!’
While endorsed by the Church of England, Sit & Heat cushions can be supplied to churches of all denominations.
• Sit & Heat are on stand B6 at CRE 24
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Mariana’s mission: Grace to those without deep pockets
A 37-year-old beautician is keen for less-privileged women to receive treatment without cost – so she’s bringing her Grace on Wheels van to CRE 24.
A beautician since 2009, Mariana said: ‘I speak with women from different cultures, ages, religions and social classes. For many, their time in the salon is not only a time of relaxation but also a time to open up about their problems.’
Most of Mariana’s clients tend be relatively well off. Juggling work, family and children they still have the opportunity to pay for beauty services.
‘But I am concerned about women who don’t have deep pockets,’ said Mariana. ‘How can we make them feel special and loved? As a Christian I want to take Grace on Wheels to these women and their children who, due to the circumstances of life, have been deprived of the ability to pay for treatments.
‘My heart is to reach out to victims of domestic abuse, violence, homelessness, human trafficking and also women in detention and prisons.’
Mariana, who also hosts pamper parties for children, to ‘create special memories’, wants to offer her services free to vulnerable women through a partnership with churches and charities that want to bring ‘inside-out’ transformation to women.
‘I will be with the van on the exhibition floor at CRE 24,’ she said, ‘and I would love to talk to anyone who feels their church or organisation could help provide such a service in their area.’
• Grace on Wheels are on stand D19 at CRE 24
Main photo: Mariana with her Grace on Wheels van
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Drugs: avoiding the snares of the secondary school
Drugs and 11-year-olds – how do you help them resist experimenting when they get to secondary school?
Ask CRE 24 exhibitor Hope UK, who, in 2024 alone, have delivered drug awareness to nearly 18,000 Year 6 students.
Pupils Henry and Eva were full of praise for a Hope UK session they attended.
‘I liked how they got us to think about what’s good and bad for us,’ said Henry. Eva agreed: ‘They made it fun and turned learning about peer pressure into a game.’
Introducing peer resistance skills to 11-year-olds is a key part of Hope UK’s approach in delivering the Junior Citizens’ Scheme (JCS) to hundreds of primary school children across London and the south-east.
For the past two years, Hope UK has also run its own version of the national scheme at the organisation’s head office in Kettering. It was the second year teacher Jane Tinto’s school had attended Kettering Junior Citizens.
‘It is very helpful to build on the curriculum,’ she said. ‘The workshops were informative and interactive. It’s all about getting children to be safe in the real world.’
Many church youth workers feel ill-equipped to manage drug issues with young people. A talk at CRE 24 by Hope UK’s Sarah Brighton (Wed 9 Oct, 12.30pm) will help them get started. More information here.
• Hope UK are on stand P9 at CRE24
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk
Navigating pinnacles, peregrines, policies and people – the Ecclesiastical way
Half a ton of stonework falling more than 30 meters – just as well Worcester Cathedral was properly insured. Severe winds from Storm Arwen had torn away part of a pinnacle from the cathedral tower.
‘Our immediate priority was to ensure the safety of the building and put temporary measures in place to protect the building from further damage,’ said Annaleise Jones of CRE 24 exhibitors Ecclesiastical Insurance.
Preserving the cathedral’s history was of utmost importance during the restoration process. Extensive discussions with structural engineers led to the construction of a permanent steel frame within the roof void to support the vaulted stone ceiling. Metal hangers and a flat metal plate reinforced the masonry, ensuring structural integrity.
Around 1,500 organ pipes, contaminated with dust and debris, were carefully extracted and cleaned off-site. A digital organ was sourced for continuity of services. Once repairs were completed, the organ pipes were reinstalled.
During restoration, peregrine falcons nested on the cathedral spire. The restoration of the pinnacle was put on hold until the chicks had fully fledged. A live webcam allowed people to witness the growth of Peggy, Peter, Penguin, Penelope, Percie – and Mr Lazy.
Carving of the new pinnacle began while waiting for the chicks to fledge. The damaged pinnacle was replaced with a new one crafted by the cathedral’s stonemasons. Preservation of the cathedral’s architectural heritage was ensured using red sandstone sourced from Hollington quarry in Staffordshire.
Interim Dean, Canon Stephen Edwards of Worcester Cathedral commented: ‘We are extremely grateful to Ecclesiastical for their support from the moment the news broke and all the way through the restoration journey. They navigated peregrines, programming, policies and people with perfection!’
Ecclesiastical will give four talks at CRE 24:
Unlocking the power of support by Helen Richards (2pm, Wed 9 Oct)
Open churches: balancing safety and security by Heather Ford (3.30pm, Wed 9 Oct)
Greening your mission by Helen Gray and Chris Pitt (11am, Thu 10 Oct)
Church insurance support made easy by Heather Ford (1.30pm, Thu 10 Oct)
• Ecclesiastical are on stand A1 at CRE 24
CRE 2025
To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk