Last weekend, Christians from across the Diocese of Bath and Wells joined thousands of others at this year’s New Wine gathering at Shepton Mallet Showground — a week-long Christian festival filled with powerful worship, Bible teaching, prayer, and vibrant community.
Attendees included individuals, families, and church groups from around the country, all coming together with the shared desire to encounter God in a fresh and meaningful way. Many spoke of the powerful move of the Holy Spirit throughout the week and the deep sense of connection they experienced — both with God and with one another.
“Stepping into the Big Top for the first morning celebration was surreal! To join with around nine thousand other Christians in worship and to experience the Holy Spirit moving was just amazing!” – Congregation Member
The festival featured daily worship gatherings, in-depth Bible teaching, seminars, youth and children’s programmes, and dedicated times of ministry. Evenings were filled with games, celebrations, and opportunities to reflect and respond. A strong sense of unity and expectancy filled the site as people from all walks of life encountered God in new and personal ways.
“The seminars this year were so insightful! Myself and some friends went to Ellie and John Mumford’s interview in the Big Top on Saturday afternoon — it was the perfect combination of comedy and deeper meaning. You could also watch it on a big screen outside in the fun zone, which meant parents who couldn’t bring their children inside still didn’t miss out!”- Congregation Member
Whether camping with church groups, serving on team, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, many left the showground feeling renewed, inspired, and more equipped to live out their faith in everyday life.
“It was a delight to attend this year’s ‘New Wine’ held at the Bath and West Showground. The highlight was certainly worshipping alongside thousands in the Big Top. It was extraordinary to be part of such a crescendo of praise, singing out with all my heart with the many others taking part.” – Bishop Michael
To find out more about New Wine and future gatherings, visit their website.