Rev Matt iBlog

The  Peak Wesley Way  is a six-day self-guided pilgrimage through the heart of Derbyshire, stretching from the spa town of  Matlock  to the village of  Edale  in the Hope Valley. Pilgrims travel from the gentler landscapes of the  White Peak  to the rugged, dramatic terrain of the  Dark Peak . This 43-mile route leads through some of England’s most breathtaking natural beauty — a landscape that speaks of ancient geology, hard-working farming communities, industrial heritage, and centuries of human journeying. Along the way, pilgrims walk up to ten miles a day, staying overnight in  Methodist chapels  — simple but holy places still alive with worship and welcome. Route Overview: Day 1 : Matlock to Youlgrave (9 miles) Day 2 : Youlgrave to Great Longstone (8–10 miles) Day 3 : Great Longstone to Baslow (6 miles) Day 4 : Baslow to Hathersage (8 miles) Day 5 : Hathersage to Castleton (8 miles) Day 6 : Castleton to Edale (4 miles) Reflecti...

The Methodist Conference 2025 has now drawn to a close, and I find myself reflecting on what has been a full, powerful, and moving week. Gathering in Telford, hundreds of us from across the Connexion came together to confer, pray, reflect, and discern the way forward for our Church. This year, I had the privilege of attending as a voting member, and as a Presbyter, I arrived early to take part in the Presbyteral Session. One of the most memorable moments of that session was hearing Bishop Christian Alsted speak so poignantly on  “Fractured World, Fractured Church.”  His words offered a sobering reminder of the brokenness we see all around us — and often within our own Church. The conversation that followed was rich and challenging, calling us back to the urgent work of healing and reconciliation, both within the Body of Christ and in the world we are called to serve. Sunday’s ordination services, held in various churches across the region, were a joyful celebration — a moment ...

A few years ago, I took the courage to share my personal story of suffering with depression. I didn’t know what to expect—but what I found was an outpouring of love and support. Many people came forward and shared their own stories of mental health struggles. That solidarity and honesty were deeply comforting. Members of Muswell Hill Methodist Church were fantastic, and I remain grateful for their kindness. Since then, I’ve reflected on the wider context we’re living in. From the global pandemic to the continuing cost-of-living crisis, our society is under intense pressure. It’s no wonder we’re facing a growing mental health crisis across the UK. During my current sabbatical, I’ve been focusing on different aspects of inclusivity. One area that’s especially close to my heart is how the Christian Church responds to mental health. The Bible isn’t silent on the subject of mental anguish. Elijah, fearing for his life at the hands of Queen Jezebel, sat down under a broom tree and prayed for...

During my sabbatical, I’ve had the opportunity to attend Andy’s Man Club , a free nationwide support group that runs every Monday at 7PM. These groups create a safe, judgment-free, and non-clinical environment where men can open up about the storms affecting their lives. There’s no pressure to speak—men are welcome to just listen if they wish. I’ll be honest: I was nervous the first time I went. The team leaders wait outside the venue to welcome people in. Even now, I still feel a bit intimidated seeing them standing outside, but they’re genuinely there to help men feel at ease. It made me think about how people must feel walking into church for the first time, and how we might be more intentional in creating a welcoming, non-intimidating environment. Once I was sat in the circle, I felt right at home. It was amazing to be part of a community of men from all walks of life, sharing the same space and supporting one another. One of the group’s simple but powerful rules is: no phones out....

I am currently on sabbatical until the 21st of July—a time of pause, reflection, and renewal. So far, it has been a real gift. I've been blessed with precious time with family. Helen and I recently enjoyed a beautiful week away in Whitby, celebrating my father-in-law’s 80th birthday. Moments like these remind me how important it is to slow down and cherish what really matters. I’m also making the most of this sabbatical by doing things I love—like attending sports events—and, more importantly, taking time to reconnect with God and reflect on my calling. I began ministry in 2018, and although I was due to be ordained in 2020, the pandemic delayed that moment until 2021. Like so many in ministry, it feels like I haven’t truly stopped since COVID-19 changed our world. This sabbatical is giving me space to breathe, to pray, and to listen. A Focus on Inclusive Welcome One of the main focuses of this time is to explore how churches can offer a truly  inclusive welcome  to all. I bel...