First Bedford Area Networking Event 

 
The first meeting of Christians in the workplace in the Bedford area took place on Thursday 16th August 2018 at Borough Hall, Bedford (the photo shows the rear view of Bedford Borough Hall looking out over the river). The event was organised by area ambassador Adrian Holloway (a first for him too!) and hosted by his son Ian, who is a leader of the group at Bedford Borough Council. It was attended by representatives from four local groups together with two others who are not currently affiliated to any particular group but wanted to know more about what God is doing in the workplace.  Ros Turner, Operations Director for TWUK also attended and gave an inspirational presentation on the origins and vision of the organisation. 
 
After introductions and some light refreshments, delegates shared their experiences of ministry in the workplace and some of the challenges that come with it.  As always with these events, delegates learned from each other and picked up some key messages which included:-

• Christian Workplace Groups should be outward-looking as well as inward e.g. towards partners, neighbours and all staff!
• It is important to engage with management
• Get involved with corporate events to raise profile of the Christian Workplace Group
• Stay faithful even when things do not seem to be happening
• Put on special events (with food!) to reach potential new members
• Keep all Christian Workplace Group contacts informed of news, events and prayer needs even if they don’t attend
• Christian Workplace Groups are not replicating church in the workplace but using the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda and where appropriate celebrating the achievements of their organisation.