Early Years in Ministry Visit to the new Methodist Church House 

The group of ministers (presbyters and deacons) from the Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Essex Early Years in Ministry Group enjoyed a great visit to the new Methodist Church House in Tavistock Square, London.  We were wonderfully hosted by the Warden (Karen McBride) and Deputy Warden (Michelle Legumi) of the Methodist Diaconal Order.  Their office is on the ground floor of MCH and we learned that one of their roles is to be available to anyone who comes into the building searching for answers or information.  They certainly fed and nurtured us well!  We learned about the interesting history of the Diaconal Order and shared with them in their daily prayers.  After lunch together, we were taken on a tour of the new building, including the roof terrace.  Exposed brickwork and duct work etc give the building a sort of industrial look – but that doesn’t take away from the technology apparent throughout the building – from signing in as we arrived and having our photos immediately printed for our ID badges, to learning how Connexional staff work at “hot desks” – which they have to book through an app.  The meeting rooms were all in use and there was a sense that collaboration and creativity are the norm across the Connexional Team.  We enjoyed our visit very much and are grateful to Karen and Michelle for their hospitality.