Monday 12^th November and eight intrepid holidaymakers set off for a 4 day break at Carsington, stopping in a converted barn (which turned out to be the most luxurious barn I’d ever seen!). It was an opportunity for church members to get to know one another and deepen the bonds already formed through our church fellowship.  We set out not knowing how the four days would pan, with  no formal organisation and it turned out to be one of the best holidays I have had. God blessed our little group so much and He was so present in everything we did from our first sighting of the accommodation to the last cup of coffee we shared together on the journey home. We can’t thank Him enough for all His blessings. It was wonderful to begin the day with praise and to end the day with thanksgiving. 

After we had all settled ourselves into our various rooms we went exploring our surroundings and discovered a very nice pub within walking distance which served up a rather nice dinner on our first evening. We had a wonderful karaoke session when we returned later in the evening with everyone joining in and having fun.The next morning we were treated to the most wonderful breakfast, cooked superbly by our resident chef Bill and his able assistant Joan, creating a precident that continued for the rest of the holiday. The days were spent walking in lovely countryside sharing with each other and learning about each other, stopping of course for refreshment (we did a lot of eating!). The second evening after another delightful pub dinner, was spent learning to ring the hand bells (some of us showed promise!).  

We knew God was with us the following day when on a visit to Cromford Mill and a walk into Matlock Bath, we came across Willersley Castle Hotel, a Christian Guild Conference Centre, where we stopped for morning coffee and were welcomed so warmly that we spent a little time exploring the hotel and the grounds. We shall bear this in mind for future retreats! 

I am certain that everyone who shared the experience would agree with me that it was one worth repeating and I look forward to doing more of this.  It is in binding together in strong fellowship that we create a firm foundation in the church which then allows us to grow strong enough to welcome all whom God sends into our fold.