A network of clergy and others in Christian ministry getting good quality input from professionals and supporting one another

 

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Christian ministry is both deeply fulfilling and incredibly demanding. While we recognise the importance of caring for our own well-being and supporting others who may be struggling, finding the time and resources to do so can often feel overwhelming.

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Since 2021, Connect Network has partnered with Dave Burke, a pastor and mental health first aid trainer, to create an online space where clergy and Christian leaders can gather. These one-hour sessions provide:

✅ Expert input from professionals in the field of mental health
✅ Meaningful discussions on how these insights impact our lives and ministries
✅ A supportive community where leaders can connect, reflect, and grow together

We also run two free annual retreat days at Shepherd’s Dene in Northumberland. Taking time to stop, pray, and think is the heart of our retreat days. It is a time to unwind, decompress, and fully rest. As one participant shared:

“You can breathe. You don’t realise how much you’re carrying until you stop. There’s no pressure to do anything – just talk, take time to rest and reflect.”
          (KIT Participant at the retreat day)

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What’s New in 2025?

We will continue to offer our online spaces and retreats, as feedback has shown how vital these are.

We’re also excited to welcome Rachel Broughton, a former pastor, who will be joining the team. Her additional insight and experience will bring fresh perspectives to our discussions.

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And we have a major new initiative:

🎙️ Keeping It Together – A New Podcast! 🎙️
Alongside our workshops and retreats, we’re launching a brand-new podcast. Hosted by Dave Burke and Rachel Broughton, this series will feature guest experts covering key topics such as:

🔹 Trauma linked to homelessness
🔹 Supporting neurodiverse individuals in our communities
🔹 Insights from our workshops and reflections on scripture

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Join Us

We’d love for you to be part of this growing community. Visit our events page to register for our next session and learn more.

Together, let’s encourage one another, nurture our well-being, and gain valuable insights into how to better support those we serve. As one participant put it:

“The KIT programme has helped me to think that it’s OK for me to have a life outside of the parish, and to think more about why I do what I do.”
          (KIT Participant)

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