With thanks to inspiring team leaders

On Saturday just gone, I had the wonderful joy of being part of the annual CRED Trip Leaders training day. There were 18 of us at the event, and despite the fact that we were also being 'inspected' for the final bit of the process to gain the 'learning outside the classroom' quality badge, it was a very special day.

Of those present, all bar 2 had been on CRED trips in some capacity, either as leader, co-leader, or team member. Some of us have led many trips, some a few, and some are just embarking on the role, but together we had a great day reflecting, sharing best practice, renewing skills, learning about new systems and procedures, and all interspersed with lots of laughter and fellowship

For me, one of the best aspects about the day was the re-energising that I got from being everyone, from hearing their reflections on how special the trips are, and stories of the impact the trips are having. It was great to be reminded of the experience and impact of CRED trips from those who aren't living and breathing them every day, when sometimes the minutiae and obstacles can crowd out the bigger celebration.

It was also lovely to hear some of those present say how they love to be part of the CRED family. Just to know that it feels like family to them is so encouraging, and affirms that we are getting something right! For the trip leaders, CRED isn't a faceless organisation that occasionally calls on their time - that is so good to know, and a reminder of not aspiring to get too big in case we risk becoming that.

But some of the questions from those who are newer to CRED also caused me to reflect on the importance of getting across the message that these trips aren't just about impacting our young people. Equally important is the benefit that they bring to the partners, and the ongoing work they are doing, and on Saturday I felt challenged to consider how better we can tell those stories.

Nothing concrete yet, although several ideas mulling, one of which is to make sure I keep blogging and using this a platform for being a voice for the partners. The work God is doing through CRED and its partners is exciting to be part of - may I never forget to let everyone else in on the stories!

Here's to the path forward: of team trips that impact participants from UK and from the host partner, led by inspiring, wonderful team leaders, who give of themselves tirelessly and selflessly, to help transform lives and bring back wonderful stories of God's Kingdom work, to share with the wider world.