As the Celebrate Recovery National Conference approaches, excitement is building among those helping to shape the day. From months of planning and preparation to hopes for what God will do through the event, there is so much happening behind the scenes that delegates may never see.

To give you a glimpse into what’s ahead, we asked three members of the conference team, Kath, Catherine and Elspeth, to answer five questions about this year’s gathering. They share what they’re most excited about, the unseen work that goes into making the conference happen, the moments they’re most looking forward to, and their hopes for everyone attending.

Whether you’re a long-time Celebrate Recovery leader, a volunteer, or simply curious about what goes on, their reflections capture the heart behind the conference: connecting with the wider CR family, celebrating transformed lives, learning from one another, and being inspired to bring hope and healing to communities across the UK.

Here’s what they had to say:

1. What excites you most about this year’s conference?

Kath: Having the opportunity to meet with the wider CR family and hear all God is doing in transforming lives across the UK.

Catherine: I’m especially excited that we’re having several mini-testimonies rather than one or two full-length testimonies. I can’t wait to show the wide range of issues that Jesus helps people overcome through Celebrate Recovery – and to involve more people in sharing their stories.

Elspeth: We recently started Celebrate Recovery ministry at St Joseph’s Benwell in Newcastle, and I’m really excited to have the team come along and see what God is doing through this ministry further afield.

2. What’s one thing attendees might not realise goes on behind the scenes?

Kath: Planning an event like the conference starts a good 12 months before in finding the venue, preparing talks, advertising, learning from previous feedback and much more; all so we can continually improve the experience people have on the day.

Catherine: As the host church for this year’s conference, I’ve been encouraged by the number of people who’ve stepped up to serve – from tech and worship to making teas and coffees and setting up. Looking for someone to make soup and much more!

Elspeth: What people know about Celebrate Recovery varies enormously.  Whether you are coming to find out what Celebrate Recovery is all about or to be encouraged and sharpened after many years of serving in this ministry, the behind-the-scenes preparations mean that it is a great day for everyone.  

3. Which part of the day are you most looking forward to?

Kath: Catching up with CR groups from across the UK and understanding how we can best support them.

Catherine: I’m really looking forward to re-connecting with our Celebrate Recovery family. Even as someone who’s not naturally a big hugger, I can’t wait to catch up with familiar faces and meet new members of the CR family.

Elspeth: As a new ministry leader, I am looking forward to meeting others who are leading, to be encouraged, and to learn from one another.  

4, If you could encourage delegates to do one thing on the day, what would it be?

Kath: Chat with people from other CR groups and hear what God is doing in their communities. Not only is this inspiring and encouraging, but we are building a true sense of family.

Catherine:  I’d encourage everyone to get to know people from other Celebrate Recovery groups. The conference is a fantastic opportunity to build relationships, and I firmly believe we’re stronger when we work together. And while you’re there, make sure you meet nearest Regional Representative – they’d love to meet you!

Elspeth: Talk to people from other recovery groups, lend a hand if there’s a job to be done, speak up in the workshops – in summary, come with a servant heart and live out principle 8

Finish this sentence: “I’ll know the conference has been a success if…”

Kath: …people are encouraged in their ministry and/or encouraged to start – so that more communities can experience healing from their hurts, hangups and habits.

Catherine: …even one existing Celebrate Recovery group is strengthened, or one new group begins because of what God does through the conference.

Elspeth: …those attending leave with renewed passion to tell others of the hope they have in Christ and how Celebrate Recovery, as a Christ centred recovery programme, can be a key ministry in our churches and communities today.