Day of Fellowship Calls Churches to “Repair the Breach”
photo taken by Don Chihwayi

20 May 2026, 22:33Pastor Max McKenzie-Cook

Day of Fellowship Calls Churches to “Repair the Breach”

At the Day of Fellowship, members, pastors, families, and entire congregations gathered to focus on the theme of “Repairing the Breach.” Inspired by Nehemiah’s story, we were encouraged to honestly see what needs fixing, find courage, and return to rebuilding our church life.

Merthyr Tydfil and Cardiff Romanian Singing Group
Merthyr Tydfil and Cardiff Romanian Singing Group
photo taken by Don Chihwayi

Local pastors and congregations led the event with support from the Welsh Mission. This showed that real change takes more than one person or group. We all need to work, pray, and serve together.

Newport Praise Team
Newport Praise Team
photo taken by Don Chihwayi

Nehemiah’s story reminded us that rebuilding starts before any work begins. Instead of rushing in with speeches or quick fixes, Nehemiah listened, prayed, and took time to see what was truly broken. He wanted to understand the needs before asking others to help. We were reminded that sometimes we feel discouraged, relationships become strained, or we feel tired. But we do not have to give up. We can rebuild and trust God to guide us.

One challenge from the day was to move from watching to taking part. Nehemiah did not blame others. He said, 'We are in trouble.' This made it clear that we all share responsibility and each of us has a role in the work.

Tribute to Pastor Allcock as he retires - left to right: Pastor Graham Allcock, Sister Pauline Allcock, Pastor Jeremy Johnson, Pastor Adriana Fodor, Pastor Sam Semakula and Pastor Max McKenzie-Cook.
Tribute to Pastor Allcock as he retires - left to right: Pastor Graham Allcock, Sister Pauline Allcock, Pastor Jeremy Johnson, Pastor Adriana Fodor, Pastor Sam Semakula and Pastor Max McKenzie-Cook.
photo taken by Don Chihwayi

The Day of Fellowship also highlighted the value of different generations working together. We thanked Pastor Graham Allcock as he retired and welcomed Pastor Max McKenzie-Cook as interim leader. This reminded us that serving continues even when roles change. Wisdom and experience still help the church in new ways.

Ystrad Mynach Church Choir singing, 'The Power of The Cross'
Ystrad Mynach Church Choir singing, 'The Power of The Cross'
photo taken by Don Chihwayi

Throughout the day, we saw rebuilding through worship, fellowship, prayer, and a renewed focus on mission. We learned that fixing what is broken does not always begin with big plans. Often, it starts with simple things: opening our doors, welcoming each other, letting children join in worship, praying for one another, and repeating small acts of kindness.

Pastor Max McKenzie-Cook was the Main Speaker for the day
Pastor Max McKenzie-Cook was the Main Speaker for the day
photo taken by Don Chihwayi

The message was clear: we can rebuild what is broken and find new strength and purpose together.

Like Nehemiah’s builders, we are called to prepare for the work ahead. God still calls us to rebuild hope, restore faith, and work together for His mission.

Rewatch the morning service here: https://www.youtube.com/live/5McQNCqPX8E?si=WdJJvwb83I6r5eaV

The Armstrong Brothers playing the violins
The Armstrong Brothers playing the violins
photo taken by Don Chihwayi

A massive thank you to the church members of the Cardiff District, Pastor Jeremy Johnson (the Cardiff District Pastor) and Pastor Adriana Fodor (Ystrad Mynach Church Pastor) for helping to organise this Day of Fellowship on the 16th May in Newport.

Martin Walters and the Stringed Instruments Music Band
Martin Walters and the Stringed Instruments Music Band
photo taken by Don Chihwayi