Methodist Summer Fellowship
Sunday 2nd - Friday 7th August 2026
Theme for 2026: Pilgrimage
The Hayes Conference Centre, Swanwick
Confirmed Speakers for MSF 2026
We are delighted to announce that our daily bible studies will be led by Rev Canon Dr Sally Welch.
Sally Welch has been a parish priest for over twenty five years, serving in a variety of contexts, including city centre and cathedral but mostly with a heart for rural ministry. Throughout her ministry she has been a pilgrim, having journeyed along routes in both the United Kingdom and Europe, both on her own and as a group leader. Sally has written a number of books on pilgrimage (including Pilgrim Journeys: Pilgrimage for walkers and armchair travellers) reflecting on both the inner and outer journey and how each inform the other. She believes that a pilgrim spirituality can shape and form individuals and communities, enabling them to connect more deeply to their environment, their neighbour and their own selves.
Further updates regarding confirmed speakers are to follow.
A Christmas message from our MSF presidents 2026:
As we move towards Christmas, we’re following a sort of “pilgrimage”: the story of Mary and Joseph travelling to Bethlehem, the shepherds hurrying to the stable, the Wise Men journeying from the East – all in the midst of a Roman Empire on the move. It wasn’t a comfortable pilgrimage that ended peacefully in Bethlehem, but one that led to exile in Egypt, fleeing senseless violence. As we remember their story, we can’t help but think of those making forced journeys today, and of the continuing violence in the region where Jesus was born.
Yet Christmas invites us to celebrate hope. In Jesus, we meet a God who comes as a pilgrim – vulnerable, asking to be received, coming to meet us. May we welcome the God who dwells among us this Christmas, and in turn extend a welcome to all who seek refuge and hope. Happy Christmas!
Louisa and Michael