The final day of the North England Conference (NEC) Session, Friday 13th September, began with a devotion led by Dr Daniel Duda (TED President) under the theme Forward We Go. His thought-provoking message challenged delegates to consider the implications of this motto. Among his memorable statements were, "You cannot answer 16th-century questions with 19th-century answers in a 21st-century world," and "We must be sure not to confuse mission with ministry." Dr Duda emphasised that mission is about moving forward, becoming more like Jesus, and extending His love to the world.
In a break from the usual proceedings, the Credentials and License Committee presented their report, covering missionary and ministerial credentials for workers and a list of lay preachers. The report, consisting of 55 slides, was scrolled through for delegates to read at their own pace, as requested by Chair, Pastor Jacques Venter. Once completed, the report was referred back to the committee.
The session resumed with the Prison Ministries report, where the sponsor, Pastor Ian Philpott, jovially encouraged everyone to "go to prison" for evangelistic purposes, which was well received by the delegated. Questions were raised about how the department could receive more support, and there was commendation for the impressive work achieved with limited resources.
After a brief break for hotel check-outs, the Nominating Committee presented a partial report, which was overwhelmingly voted through. The Credentials and License Committee returned with the same report, after addressing objections, which was then voted and approved.
Elder Noah Naylor presented the Publishing Department report, reminding delegates of the importance of publishing. Questions focused on how the work could be further supported.
The Plans Committee, the largest committee of the session, then presented their proposals covering six areas: Reflecting Christ, Asset Management, People, Education, Communication, and Safeguarding. The passion behind these plans was evident, with additional suggestions from the floor. The importance of holding the Executive Committee accountable to these plans was emphasised before they were voted and approved.
The afternoon session resumed with the Stewardship report, which was voted through without question. The Teens Ministry report followed, raising concerns about creating safe spaces for young people. Pastor Simon shifted the focus from "safe churches to safe people," emphasising that if the people are safe, the churches will follow.
Sister Beulah Plunkett delivered the Women's Ministries report, highlighting the various events and support structures established during the term. She was commended for her inclusive leadership style and the growth of women’s ministries within the NEC.
The final departmental report came from the Youth Department, where Pastor Micah Campbell shared the theme for his term: IMAGE (I’m Always Good Enough). He recounted the events and training the department had organised, with commendations for the department's work. Delegates suggested more collaboration between departments and a broader scope for youth ministry across the NEC.
The Nominating Committee returned with two reports—one on the remaining directors and another on the Executive Committee—both of which were referred back. After an hour's wait, the committee presented its final report for the directors, which was passed, followed by the Executive Committee report, which was also approved. The Nominating Committee recommended that Prayer Ministries, Men's Ministries, and AMR be referred to the Executive Committee.
Here is the final list of officers, directors, and sponsors approved by the delegation. The number in brackets indicates the department's allocated budget:
- AMR - Referred to Executive Committee
- Children's Ministries - Bekezela Peters (0.5)
- Communication - Ps Joe Philpott (0.5)
- Community Services - Dr Beatrice Kastrati (0.5)
- Family Ministries - Ps John Francis (0.75)
- Health - Dr Beatrice Kastrati (0.5)
- Media - Ps Joe Philpott (0.5)
- Mens - Referred to Executive Committee
- Ministerial Association - Ps Julian Kastrati (1)
- Music - Referred to Executive Committee
- Pathfinders - Ps Ikwisa Mwasumbi (1)
- Personal Ministries - Ps Dan Majaducon (1)
- Prayer - Referred to Executive Committee
- Prison - Ps Ian Philpott (0.25)
- Sabbath School - Dr Gina Miller (0.5)
- Stewardship - Ps Ian Philpott (0.25)
- Teens - Eld Horace Radcliffe (0.5)
- Womens - Dr Gina Miller (0.5)
- Youth - Ps Derek Simon (1)
Before adjourning, recognition was given to those who had served faithfully, with special thanks to Todd Macfarlane (Parliamentarian), Dr Daniel Duda, Pastor Ian Sweeney (TED), Pastor Eglan Brooks (BUC President), Pastor Jacques Venter (BUC Executive Secretary), Wederley (BUC Treasurer), and the rest of the BUC team. Additional thanks were extended to the NEC staff, Stanborough Press, the hotel staff, Laura Grant (NEC Session Event Planner), and all who had served as directors, sponsors, and Executive Committee members over the past three years.
The newly elected directors were invited to the stage, where Pastor Steve Palmer offered words of gratitude to the outgoing directors and Executive Committee. He humbly acknowledged that his current position was God's doing, not man's, and reminded the congregation that in times of criticism, it is better to pray. He ended with a reminder of Ellen White’s words: "We have nothing to fear for the future except we forget how God has led us in the past."
The session concluded with a prayer from Pastor Palmer, marking the end of a productive and Spirit-filled NEC Session.
