By Andy Harding, Pastor at Abbeyhill Baptist Church
“I am convinced that this 24-hour period was deeply significant in allowing Jesus to shape and sustain me for the next chapter of ministry.”
On the 18th and 19th of March, some of the pastors and church leaders from within our union gathered for what was a significant time of teaching, worship and fellowship at the INCREASE Leaders Conference. Andy harding, Pastor of Abbeyhill Baptist Church in Edinburgh shared his reflections from the gathering.
“The Increase Leaders Gathering in March was a significant time in which God refined both Odele and I through fellowship, learning, ministry, and space to retreat and reflect. There was also excellent food—though perhaps leading to a different kind of “increase” than most of us are pursuing in our leadership.
Often, we learn far more from those whose approach differs slightly from our own than from those who share similar contexts and methodologies. It was therefore especially enriching to spend time alongside Scottish Baptist ministers representing a breadth of theological perspectives, geographical contexts, and styles of churchmanship. As is so often the case, some of the most valuable learning took place informally, over a drink at the bar or even in the jacuzzi, as much as it did within the structured workshop sessions. Moreover, having a safe space to share openly with like-minded peers is both refreshing and needed.
The range of input reflected the diversity of worship styles and approaches present. Andrew Rollinson’s devotions reminded us of our primary calling: to be, first and foremost, worshippers and sons and daughters of God- truths I find myself needing to revisit daily. Pete Anderson, from City on a Hill, offered helpful and practical steps for maintaining a strong focus on mission and outreach within our churches. Rob Waller, from Mind and Soul, addressed the challenges of ego and pride in leadership, bringing a different but vital perspective. Finally, Tommy Macneil concluded our time with an infectious passion for Jesus, leading us into an extended period of worship and prayer ministry.
As I reflect on this gathering, I am convinced that this 24-hour period was deeply significant in allowing Jesus to shape and sustain me for the next chapter of ministry. The combination of rest, biblical teaching, fellowship, encouragement, and challenge created the right environment to “spur one another on towards love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24).
I would strongly encourage others to consider attending the Increase Gathering in 2027. It clearly has the foundations in place to help leaders see genuine “Increase” in our churches and across the Baptist Union, which is something we all long to see.”
