Looking Back on Our 40th New Dawn Conference

Held from 29-31 May, this milestone conference welcomed over 300 people from across the country, with around one-third attending for the very first time. It was a joy to see so many people gather in faith, friendship, and expectation, creating an atmosphere of prayer, worship, and renewal throughout the weekend.

We were blessed by an outstanding programme of teaching and ministry, and extend our heartfelt thanks to our speakers who shared their faith, experience, and wisdom so generously: Fr Pat Collins, Fr James Anyaegbu, Fr Frankie Mulgrew, John Hesketh, Gary Stephens, and Daniella Stephens.

A particular highlight was welcoming Bishop John Arnold, who celebrated the closing Mass and helped bring this special anniversary conference to a prayerful and joyful conclusion.

Of course, events such as New Dawn are only possible thanks to the dedication of many volunteers who serve behind the scenes. From hospitality and stewarding to prayer ministry, music, children’s ministry, and practical support, countless people gave their time and gifts to create a welcoming environment where others could encounter the Lord. We remain deeply grateful for their generosity and servant-hearted commitment.

Following the conference, attendees shared feedback on what had impacted them most. Several themes emerged time and again: inspiring talks, powerful worship, prayer ministry, fellowship, and a deep experience of the Holy Spirit.

Many participants highlighted the quality of the teaching and speakers:

“The speakers who were all really inspiring.”

“Being with Christians on fire, the talks.”

“The talks, meeting people, lovely atmosphere.”

Others spoke of the blessing of worship, prayer, and the sacraments:

“Beautiful Masses.”

“Adoration, access to the sacraments, gifts of the Spirit practice.”

“Christians coming together in praise and worship. Also confession.”

For many, the greatest gift was the sense of Christian fellowship and community:

“Meeting friends and family in a wonderful, safe spiritual environment.”

“The peace of the whole weekend, being within a community of like-minded people, the healing support and friendships.”

“I really enjoyed how at home we felt and how lovely everyone was.”

We were especially encouraged by testimonies of personal renewal and transformation:

“The experience of the Holy Spirit in my life after the Baptism in the Spirit. I am changed by this!”

“My husband had a deep conversion at the event.”

Families also appreciated the welcome and support offered through the children’s ministry:

“My kids were quite hesitant at first, but once there and at the children’s ministry they just loved the volunteers, the activities and how welcome they felt.”

Perhaps one comment summed up the weekend better than any other:

“I just wish it could be longer!”

Although New Dawn is currently in a period of sabbatical and discernment, we remain profoundly grateful for all that the Lord did during this landmark 40th conference and for the countless lives touched over the years through the ministry of New Dawn.

You can view our conference photo gallery here and relive some of the highlights from the weekend.

We thank everyone who attended, volunteered, prayed, and helped make the 40th New Dawn Conference such a blessed celebration of faith, fellowship, and renewal.