A mighty throng

Women across ministry, theology and public life carry insights that are not always given room to be heard. For one weekend in the Malvern Hills, that changes.

Before the first session, before the panel discussions and presentations, there is a walk. Women gather and set out together across the hills, returning for supper before the evening meetings begin. Over the weekend, they will worship, think, pray and form connections that continue long after they leave.

Michelle Nunn, Principal of Regents Theological College, had noticed something through her years of study and ministry. Women around her were undertaking valuable research, some for academic work and some for the life of the church, yet their conclusions often reached only a small audience.

“There are so many women amongst us who explore incredible research projects,” she says, “but few people get to hear or be challenged by their conclusions.”

The Sacred Company is her response. Sponsored and hosted by Regents, it brings together women from different denominations and backgrounds, serving in churches, vocational work and leadership roles across wider society. It creates a place where they can share their research and experiences, reflect together and strengthen one another.

The weekend opens with a panel discussion, and the subjects that follow range widely. One speaker explores domestic abuse in Pentecostal churches. Another considers what Christians can learn about hospitality from the Sikh langar. Other sessions examine faith in an anxious age, women in Christian ministry, spiritual crisis, investing for the Kingdom and ethics in Genesis.

Yet what the women describe afterwards is about more than the sessions. It is about the room they shared and the community they discovered there.

“It was a blessing to be surrounded by a diverse group of women, praying and worshipping together, sharing their stories, research and reflections,” one participant said. She left “buzzing with fresh insights and ideas” and with new connections to inspiring women of faith.

“This is a space where women are seen, heard and deeply valued.”

Another participant said she left both academically and spiritually challenged, carrying fresh perspectives and new friendships in ministry. A third described feeling refreshed and equipped, with greater confidence in her calling and gratitude for a community that would continue to shape her walk with God.

That encouragement can continue beyond the weekend through Reimagine Groups, where women meet regularly to read, reflect and pray together. Women from Ghana, Indonesia and Jersey have joined these groups, helping to build connections that stretch well beyond Malvern.

The gathering takes its name from Psalm 68: “The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng.”

Michelle describes the weekend as creating a “sacred canopy of loving prayer and support” over the women before they step back into their God-given missions.

A mighty throng, heard and encouraged, returning to the places God has called them to serve.