The Christian and Missionary Alliance is a movement committed to making Jesus known to all people. Through its churches and international workers, it serves suffering and overlooked people in communities around the world.
When The Alliance recently gathered at High Leigh, the purpose was not simply to get through a programme, but to create time for spiritual refreshment and deeper connection with God. We chatted with Stan, the event organiser, about why this time away mattered so much.
The Challenge
“Coming together in person created space for deeper connection, shared spiritual renewal, and meaningful conversations that are difficult to experience in the midst of daily ministry pressures."
Being physically present with one another from around our region allowed for a level of engagement, encouragement, and communal discernment that simply cannot be replicated in a virtual setting.
"The hope for this time away was that colleagues would experience deep spiritual renewal. This conference was also intended to serve as a spiritual reset, a space to reconnect with long-time and newer colleagues, to reflect on shared mission and values, and to honestly consider how those commitments are being lived out in day-to-day ministry.
Before coming, many were feeling tired and stretched by ongoing ministry responsibilities, with very little margin to pause, reflect, or process alongside others. There was also uncertainty about how the experience at High Leigh would unfold, as this was our first visit. However, the time ultimately exceeded expectations and provided far more than anticipated.”
The Solution
“High Leigh was chosen because it offered a peaceful, retreat-style environment that allowed participants to step away from daily demands and focus on God, rest, and meaningful conversations. The beauty of the buildings and grounds, along with quiet spaces for walking and reflection, created an atmosphere well suited for renewal without outside distractions."
It was also important that financial resources support a Christian centre rather than a hotel chain, aligning the setting with shared values while providing the restful, distraction-free environment that was desired.
"Getting away from our usual setting created space to slow down, listen to God with greater clarity, and engage more deeply with others without the constant pressures of daily ministry. Stepping into a different environment also removed familiar routines and distractions, allowing for greater presence, reflection, and openness to what God desired to accomplish during this time.
High Leigh provided quiet space, a shared rhythm of worship and reflection, unhurried conversations, and intentional time together that strengthened both spiritual and relational connections, elements that are often difficult to experience within the pace and pressures of a normal workplace or ministry setting.
The combination of teaching, worship, personal reflection, and honest discussions around mission and values helped the team reconnect, align their hearts, and think practically about next steps. This blend of shared learning and meaningful conversation created space for renewed unity, clarity, and purpose.”
The Impact
“Significant moments occurred during the teaching sessions, times of worship, communion, and quiet reflection. Many sensed God bringing clarity, encouragement, conviction, and a deep sense of renewal throughout these experiences."
This time away resulted in renewed focus, greater clarity, a deeper sense of unity, and a fresh sense of purpose. Participants also left with concrete commitments to live out both personally and in leadership.
"In addition to this, the time away brought meaningful renewal, helping participants return to full-time ministry refreshed, spiritually strengthened, and better equipped as they step back into the demands of full-time ministry.”
For The Alliance, High Leigh provided more than a venue. It created the time and space to pause, seek God, strengthen relationships, and return to ministry with renewed unity, clarity and purpose.
High Leigh is one of 3 exclusively Christian manor house venues run by Christian Conference Trust. To find out more about High Leigh, Highgate House, or The Hayes, simply call our friendly sales team at 0300 111 4444.
