Hope Fest 2026 | Highlights & Takeaways

What a weekend! Hope Fest was packed with sunshine, laughter, great food, and so many moments of connection—from games and late-night chats to shared meals and time spent seeking God together. It was one of those weekends that reminds you how special church family really is. Who can forget Malcolm's role as Taskmaster, Catherine's Claudia Winkleman impression and the many questionable dance moves at the Cèilidh.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wt-u6KNjCs8

But alongside all the fun, we were also deeply encouraged and challenged by Simon’s two talks, where he took us into a perhaps unexpected part of the Bible: 1 Chronicles 23–27.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97TiIriYk5Q

The Purpose of the Church - Simon's First Talk

At first glance, these chapters—full of names, roles, and temple logistics—might not seem like the obvious place to go for a church weekend away. But as Simon showed us, they carry a powerful vision of what the church is for.

At the very centre of David’s plans in 1 Chronicles 25, we find something surprising: not sacrifices, not priests—but musicians.

At the heart of the temple is song.

This is meant to grab our attention. Earlier, worship in Israel was largely quiet and solemn - but David, a worshipper himself, fills the temple with music. It’s a picture of what Jesus is doing today. He is forming a people of joyful, wholehearted worship—a place of beautiful noise that delights his Father’s heart.

This challenges how we think about church. It’s easy to treat singing as a warm-up, or just one part of what we do. But this passage puts it right at the centre. Who is church for? The church is for God!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1eLXyhJfFE

The People of the Church - Simon's Second Talk

This worship is also a beautiful place of encounter. As we gather and lift our voices, God meets with us, speaks to us, and works in our hearts. The second talk reminded us that this kind of worship is something we all help build. Each of us has a role to play—serving, encouraging, guarding unity, and caring for one another—so that together we become a community that truly honours God.

As we sing we remind one another of truth, we strengthen and encourage each other and God meets with us. As we draw near to him, he draws near to us.

As we look back on a weekend full of joy, laughter, and time with God, let’s carry this vision forward - to be a people who love to worship, who make space for God to move, and who together become a church that truly delights his heart.

Whether it was early morning prayer, walks down to the reservoir, teaching in kids or youth, hanging out in the cafe, swimming, crafts, sports, bouncy castles or late night chats - what made this weekend super special was you. Thank you so much for coming, serving and being all round awesome!

If you weren't able to come this year, there's always next year! Look out for booking details in September.