On the 21st of March, the Norwich Area Mission Partnership gathered for a very special occasion: to recognise and thank the local preachers who serve across our four congregations. It was a joyful and heartfelt moment of appreciation for a group of people whose ministry is often quiet, faithful, and deeply impactful.

Local preachers play a vital role in the worship life of our churches. Week by week, they step into worship spaces, bringing with them their own gifts, stories, and ways of opening Scripture. Their dedication ensures that our congregations experience a wide variety of worship styles, voices, perspectives, and ways of encountering God.

For many of our churches, the ministry of local preachers is not only valued but essential. Without their commitment, some congregations would not receive the depth and breadth of worship they enjoy today. Their preparation, creativity, and pastoral care shape the rhythm of our shared life, and for this we are profoundly grateful.

This gathering marked the first time we had formally come together to say “thank you,” and there was a strong sense that it should become a yearly tradition. The event offered space not only for appreciation but also for conversation, an opportunity for preachers to meet one another, share experiences, and strengthen the connections that support our shared ministry.

This first celebration felt like the beginning of something important, a renewed commitment to honouring the ministry that so often happens quietly, faithfully, and with great love. Our local preachers are a gift to us, and it was a privilege to say so.