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 ...