Published on: 11/02/2026
A new service in The Rivers Team has celebrated the rich diversity of its congregation.
A ‘crossover’ service was held on New Year’s Eve at St Lawrence Tinsley, celebrating the goodness of God over 2025 and seeing in 2026 with worship and prayer. Around 60 people attended, with ages ranging from 2 to 70+, with most people there of black African heritage. The service was planned and led in collaboration with diverse members of the congregation.
One of the worship songs used at the crossover service has been introduced into the regular morning worship, with African families leading the singing and actions. The Rivers Team holds two Ignition Sundays each year, at which congregation members are encouraged to explore vocations and opportunities to serve in the worshipping life of the church. The next of these is on Sunday 15 February and aims to encourage people to have a go at various ministries; readings, prayers, singing, leading worship and welcoming – and the leadership team is intentional about inviting diverse members of the church family to take part.
Revd Phil Barringer, Team Rector, said:
‘This seems to have been a breakthrough event in terms of engagement with some of our African heritage families. I think it has helped to affirm their cultural identity and value within an increasingly diverse, but still majority white middle class, context.’
David Egah, a member of the congregation, said:
‘It was a really lovely experience for me, and I want to say a big thank you to everyone who made the crossover service possible. I genuinely learned so much through the preparation process. It pushed me to step outside my comfort zone – especially as I ended up rehearsing and singing on stage for the first time in my life! That was a big milestone for me, and I’m really grateful for all the encouragement and support.’
