Fruitful Whitstable
Programme
12th September 2026
For information about travelling to Riverside Church Whitstable, click here.
9.30amArrive, coffee and pastries
Option 1:
Seth Pinnock & Kate Middleton
A conversation between Seth and Kate. Seth will share some of the story of his journey from being a highly influential Black gospel musician, to founding and leading Symphony Collective in south London. Together with Kate Middleton, they’ll reflect on issues around inclusion, belonging, creativity and hope.
11.15am Morning Seminars
Option 2:
Paul Roberts
The Bible in the hands of leaders is very powerful: but like all power, it can be a force for good or ill. Paul’s session will give us a chance to reflect on how we use the Bible as leaders, the interpretation issues underlying that, and how we understand what the Bible's authority actually is.
Opening Worship with talk by Rose Jones
10amCoffee Break
10.55amWorship & ministry
A chance to spend some time with God in worship and prayer reflecting on the morning so far, led by Dave Pickett and others. Alternatively, connect with others at the Riverside cafe or go for a wander. This time is for you.
12.05pmLunch
Ticket holders will be able to pre-order a lunchtime meal deal from the Riverside cafe.
Church leaders are invited to hang out in the leaders lounge hosted by Inclusive Evangelicals. At 1.30pm in the leaders’ lounge Simon & Keely will be telling some of the story of Riverside’s journey into inclusion, with a Q&A.
12.45pm2pm Afternoon Seminars
Option 2
Hope Lawrence
Beyond the Noise: Trans Lives and a Faithful Response from the Church
Trans lives are being spoken about more than ever, often in ways that leave many Christians feeling uncertain about what’s true and how to respond with grace. In this seminar we’ll move beyond the noise, explore the key biblical and pastoral questions, and consider how a faithful, Jesus‑shaped response can help our churches become places of welcome and hope for everyone.
Option 1
Kate Middleton
How can we be well in a church that is sometimes a difficult or even hostile place to be? An opportunity to reflect on our own experience, to think about when it’s right to stay and when it’s right to go, and how to not lose sight of God in the midst of it all.
Coffee break
3pmAfternoon worship, with speaker Aileen Mkandawire-Mogues and prayer ministry
3.20pmFormal close
4.45pm