Leaders and representatives from across Churches Together England’s member churches gathered for an evening of fellowship at Lambeth Palace on 4 November.
Guests included the Revd Dr Tessa Henry-Robinson, Free Churches Group CTE President for 2025 to 2028, and the Revd Jenny Mills, Deputy General Secretary (Faith in Action).
The theme of the evening “One but not the Same: Celebrating diversity – Living with difference” offered an opportunity of reflection and shared commitment to Christian unity.
Tessa said: “It was good to be there, standing alongside others in an act of remembrance that reminds us of who we are as a people of faith — committed to peace, justice, and the flourishing of all creation. Representing the Free Churches Group as its moderator, and as a minister in the United Reformed Church was an honour.
“As a daughter of the Commonwealth, I was deeply moved to take part in this act of remembrance. For me, it was particularly poignant to also honour our Commonwealth men and women whose courage and sacrifice built the very freedoms we commemorate, yet whose names are too often missing from the national story.”
The evening began with the Archbishop of York, standing in for the Archbishop of Canterbury as the Anglican President, who spoke about the event’s theme “One but not the Same: Celebrating diversity – Living with difference” sharing how much there is that unites the member churches.
Jenny added: “The other five Presidents and representatives, including Tessa, offered their thoughts and reflections.
“I found it a fascinating evening full of varied conversations, interesting people, and glimpse into how different we are in our ways and words and yet God’s love unites us. Concluding with Compline in the Chapel felt a powerful demonstration of our togetherness.”
Learn more about Churches Together in England.
Image: Churches Togther England.