On Fire Conference 2025

We have returned from Yarnfield where we have had a wonderful but exhausting time at this year’s On Fire conference. With the theme of “Pilgrim People”, Ruth and I have been busy for the past few months putting together the music that we hoped would take people on a journey throughout the week.

We first attended an On Fire conference over ten years ago when it was recommended by a friend as a place we could find a home. And it is because of that that we have been drawn deeper into what On Fire is all year round. On Fire gives Ruth and I an opportunity to worship together in a way that feels natural for us with people who encourage us to delve deeper into the riches of our faith. Some people find it difficult to define what On Fire is, with its contemporary, charismatic leanings combined with the rich traditions of the ancient church some would think it a juxtaposition. For us, it is the renewal of our faith that spans millennia expressed as it has always been – in the language and culture of the times in which we live. Whether it be the quiet reflection of compline and the daily office, the meditative contemplation of benediction or the rousing times of extended singing during mass

This year’s theme of pilgrimage, journey and renewal was hugely important to us. For the last ten years or so, I have been wondering how our own community at Holy Nativity Church can learn to walk in the steps of those heroes of the faith who have walked the path of discipleship here in Yorkshire. It is for this reason that two years ago we wrote “Yorkshire Saints” as a way of expressing our desire to “walk the path to [God’s] Kingdom door”. With a variety of speakers and workshops, we have come home freshly inspired to take our next steps along the path.

We are now looking forward to next year’s conference, but not without the excitement of the coming year. Walking together with other people in the network as we shape the future of God’s Kingdom in the here and now. And that is after all what is most important; journeying together as pilgrims as we share the highs and lows along the path.

Why not check out On Fire’s annual conference next April?