On Wednesday 14 May, St Mark’s Church in Bredbury will host an evening that aims to spark conversations across the deaneries of Stockport, Chadkirk, and Mottram.
Churches in these areas are being invited to a live recording of the Chester Diocese’s Everyday Faith Podcast—an honest and inspiring conversation about living out faith in daily life.
Hosted by Ruth Bull (pictured) from Transforming Lives Together, the panel will feature three Christians who bring their faith into the heart of their work and communities:
Paul Smikle, Church Warden and worship team member at Holy Trinity Church, Stalybridge, brings his faith into the world of tech sales. “I’m an ambassador for the Kingdom—and for a manufacturing company that makes circuit boards. Whether I’m at church or with clients, I’m always looking for ways to share the Good News.”
Clair Connor of St Mary’s Church, Stockport, works with children at Disley Primary School. She describes a moment that sticks with her: “A mum sent in a video of her daughter singing ‘Amazing Grace’ which she learned while drying dishes. She said, ‘She learned this from you.’ It reminded me that small seeds of faith grow in unexpected ways.”
Gayle Cross from St Mark’s Church, Bredbury, is a Group People and Development Manager in the construction industry. “My faith shapes how I support people in tough times—both at work and personally.It’s helped shift how managers think about leadership: with compassion, grace, and dignity.”
The panel will explore how everyday discipleship—small shifts in mindset and action—can transform our relationships at home, at work, and in the world around us. There will also be a chance for the audience to ask questions and share their own stories.
Host, Ruth Bull said: “Jesus is constantly at work in the day-to-day. Hearing these stories will inspire us to understand how faith isn’t just for Sundays—it’s for school gates, office desks, and factory floors.”
Archdeacon Mike Gilbertson, Chair of the Everyday Faith group at Church House, says, “‘I am constantly encouraged by hearing how Jesus is at work in our daily lives, to share his love and hope with others. It’s going to be great to hear from Gayle, Clair and Paul and to be inspired as we live out our own faith day by day.”
Don’t miss this powerful evening of faith, storytelling, and encouragement!
Everyday Faith Podcast Event - Book here
