I’ve just been somewhere new for the weekend. Well, new to me anyway!

Nottingham to be precise … Yes, I know, it’s not very glamorous but for me it was a first!

I’ve visited most parts of the UK in my time, but I have never had cause to visit the home town of Robin Hood and his Merry Men before now.

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I’m not sure what I was expecting but I definitely didn’t realise the city had such a thriving arts scene. It had a wonderful area called the ‘Creative Quarter’ packed full of brilliant independent shops and street cafes; exciting film, music and theatre events and much more …

That’s the thing about going somewhere new and experiencing it for the first time. We might think we know what to expect but we can never know for sure until we arrive at our destination.

Later this summer across Lancashire, including all parts of East Lancashire, a fantastic four day mission event is taking place from September 8 -11 coordinated by Blackburn Diocese (The Church of England in Lancashire).

People from parishes across the region will be joined by nearly 30 Bishops, as well as the Archbishop of York, The Most Rev. Dr John Sentamu, as they organise hundreds of events for their local communities.

It’s all part of the annual ‘Crossroads Mission’ event which takes place in a different Diocese in the north of England every year. For our Diocese (the second to host Crossroads) this year’s event will sit alongside our ongoing work for our Vision 2026: Healthy Churches Transforming Communities.

From small events in parish church halls and back gardens, to large events at Blackburn Cathedral and Preston Flag Market there will be something for all ages over the four days.

Whilst there will be fun moments throughout behind everything associated with Crossroads Mission is one main point … the opportunity for as many people in Lancashire as possible to find out more about the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

If that last sentence means nothing to you, don’t worry. Just keep an eye open for Crossroads events happening down your way from September 8 – 11 and get yourself along … You might think you know what to expect but you can never know for sure until you arrive at your destination and ask a simple question … what did Jesus do for me?

The answer will amaze you.

Ronnie Semley

Diocesan Communications Manager

The Church of England in Lancashire