Presbyterian Church in Ireland Conference Explores Sharing Faith Through Everyday Conversation

The Conversational Ministry conference, held in Assembly Buildings on Tuesday, drew a full house of ministers, elders, ministry leaders and church members. The day explored how Christians can make the most of everyday conversations to love and care for one another and to point people to Jesus.

The keynote speakers were Dr Ed Welch, of the Christian Counselling and Educational Foundation (CCEF), and Dr Andy Bannister, Director of Solas Ministries. They encouraged those present to recognise the many chances for meaningful conversation that arise in ordinary daily life and to pursue them deliberately.

Welch drew on his experience in biblical counselling and church ministry to highlight the importance of meaningful, gospel-shaped relationships. Bannister encouraged participants to engage naturally and confidently in conversations about the Christian faith.

Both speakers used stories from public transport, workplaces, time after church, coffee meetings and wider church life to show how ordinary interactions can open into deeper conversations. They said Christians can listen well, notice social cues and ask thoughtful questions, and that, with sensitivity and humility, conversations can move naturally toward matters of faith.

One reflection from the day, as reported by the church, said: “Today’s conference encouraged us to make the most of the everyday opportunities that happen around church and with those with whom we rub shoulders who don’t yet believe. It was clear that the foundation for this was love, modelled by a commitment to get to know the person deeply” (Ephesians 4:15). The same reflection said the aim was to follow God’s lead, join in well and keep the conversation going.

The conference was organised by the Council for Congregational Life and Witness. Its purpose is to support churches and members across the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) in caring for one another and sharing their faith.

Ongoing support is available by request.

Source: Read the original report