Church Leaders Gather in Llandudno to plan for 2026

Churches Together in Wales held its annual Church Leaders Gathering in Llandudno last week, bringing together leaders from across Wales’ denominations for two days of worship, reflection and strategic planning.

The gathering, held at the Loreto Centre on 22-23 October, saw church leaders engage in deep discussions about Cytûn’s mission “to help the churches to worship together and to witness in the light of each other’s convictions.”

Over the course of the two-day event, leaders participated in sessions led by Tim Rowlands and Siân Wyn Rees, focusing on shared witness and worship. The gathering also provided an opportunity for church leaders to spend time with Cytûn staff and discuss the organisation’s financial sustainability and future direction.

A significant outcome of the meeting was the agreement of Cytûn’s work plan for 2026, which includes several key priorities. Leaders committed to continuing to dedicate time for shared worship and reflection, recognising this as central to the ecumenical calling. The plan also includes direct engagement with party leaders in the run-up to the Senedd elections in May 2026, ensuring that the voice of Wales’ churches is heard on matters of social justice and public policy.

Importantly, the gathering looked forward to welcoming new members from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds into full Cytûn membership, reflecting the changing face of Christianity in Wales.

Commenting on the gathering, the Reverend Jennni Hurd Chair of Cytûn said:

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all our member church leaders and our dedicated staff team for the work they have undertaken. The genuine spirit of ecumenism that was so evident throughout our time together in Llandudno has enabled us to set out an ambitious and meaningful work plan for 2026. This spirit of unity and mutual respect is what allows us to witness effectively together and serve the people of Wales with one voice.”

The gathering concluded with morning prayers before leaders departed to continue their work across Wales.