The Sacred Company, 2026

The Sacred Company is a new initiative bringing together women from different backgrounds who are in ministry or vocational work.

Organised by women, for women, those who take part have a shared interest in theology and theological reflection.

They also, whether through a formal ministry or being involved in the wider community, sense the need to build up the local church.

It is a time for joyful reflection; a time to hear from one another, and to strengthen those “sacred” bonds.

Women come from all sorts of denominational backgrounds, serving in the church or in other local and global leadership roles.

Organised by Michelle Nunn, Principal of Regents Theological College and member of Elim’s National Leadership Team (NLT), the first meeting was piloted during Regent’s centenary year in 2025, to celebrate and make space for women to share their experiences and research interests, “for the common good”.

Michelle said, “my aim of the Sacred Company is to gather women together so they can hear from, and reflect with, other women who have undertaken theological research around a specific issue.

“There are so many women amongst us who explore incredible research projects, whether for academic or ministry purposes, but few people get to hear or be challenged by their conclusions.

“As we gather we encourage one another and make new connections.

“After the weekend together, we share a sense of having a sacred canopy of loving prayer and support over us, before stepping back into our God given missions.”

This year the conference commenced with a panel discussion including Revd Dr Kate Coleman and Revd Cham Kaur Mann, as well as women with leadership roles in the Navy, and other influential areas.

The first speaker was Phyllis Thompson, who shared her research from her new book “Women in Christian Ministry - Challenges of the Gender Gap in the 21st Century”.

It was followed by presentations on Saturday including: Mission to the Spiritual, but Not Religious; Domestic Abuse in Pentecostal Churches; Who Do You Say I Am - Fidelity to Jesus in an Age of Spiritual Crisis; Biblical Hospitality - Learning Lessons from the Langar; Investing for the Kingdom; Rebekah – a Victim of Circumstance; Narrative Ethics in Genesis; and a discussion with Dr Claire Williams about her recently published book “Blessed Are The Anxious”.

“We also encourage people to stay connected after our weekends away by participating in Reimagine Groups that meet bi-weekly on Monday or Thursday evenings. This year women have joined from Ghana, Indonesia, and Jersey.

“These groups exist to support women in leadership so they can build, sustain and plant healthy communities and churches. We might read a book as part of Reimagine, that we then chat about to encourage each other and pray together.”

The Sacred Company’s guiding verse is Psalm 68 v11:
“The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng.” (NIV).

Robert Alter interprets it in a comparable way:
“The Master gives the word – the women who bear tidings are a great host.” (The Hebrew Bible).

Both point to women announcing victory; their coming together to proclaim the good news of God through a shared faith and devotion. They bring God’s message of inspiration, hope and salvation.

That is at the heart of The Sacred Company.

“Our time together begins with a walk in the Malvern Hills, followed by supper, before the first of the evening meetings – usually a panel discussion with the women who will present topics and lead workshops.

“There is an understanding and need at Regents Theological College to create a platform where women from Elim and other denominations can share and be championed by the support of other women.

“Whatever your life mission and church background at The Sacred Company you are always made welcome.”

We caught up with some of the participants who shared their thoughts.

"The Sacred Company was such a nourishing and encouraging event. It was a blessing to be surrounded by a diverse group of women, praying and worshiping together, sharing their stories, research and reflections. I came away buzzing with fresh insights and ideas, and new connections with inspiring, like-minded women of God. This is a space where women are seen, heard and deeply valued."

“The peaceful setting of the Malvern Hills, excellent food, and thought-provoking discussions, made it an inspiring experience. I left the conference both academically and spiritually challenged, with fresh perspectives and new friendships in ministry.”

“Sacred Company 2026 was deeply encouraging. It strengthened both my faith and understanding of God's Word. The theological teaching was thoughtful, relevant, and showed me how to have confidence, and grow in my calling. I left feeling refreshed, equipped, and grateful for being part of a community that will continue to shape my walk with God.”

The next Sacred Company Conference is planned for the 2nd-3rd July 2027.