Christians from across the country have come together for a unique conference looking at managing major building projects in places of worship, hosted by the Diocese of Leeds.
Some 90 people from churches of all denominations met at Holy Trinity Church, Boar Lane in Leeds for the event, organised by the Historic Religious Buildings Alliance (HRBA).
The day featured speakers from both inside and outside the diocese, as well as case studies of churches that have gone or are going through major works.
Speakers included Lisa McIntyre, Leeds Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) Secretary, the Ven Paul Ayers, Archdeacon of Leeds (pictured) and the Revd Canon Sam Corley, Rector of Leeds City Team Ministry.
About the day Lisa said: “I was delighted when my invitation to HRBA to come to the diocese was taken up, giving us the opportunity to act as host for this national event and to be able to tell people about building projects in our churches, alongside hearing from specialists from the wider Yorkshire region and further afield.
“There was a fantastic range of attendees, presenting a unique and invigorating opportunity for 
conversation between people from across the country and from across denominations.”
The day looked at building projects from beginning to end, with sessions on defining a vision for your church, bringing people on board with the plan, fundraising and getting the building work done.
There was also time for question and answers, allowing people to find out more from the speakers and those already involved in big projects.
With the event being at Holy Trinity Boar Lane, much of what was discussed could be seen first-hand as that church prepares for its own revitalisation and building work, led by Revd Canon Sam.
Of the event, Revd Canon Sam said: “It was a privilege to host the conference at a time when Holy Trinity itself is on the cusp of the biggest development to the church in 130 years.
“There is always immense value in coming together to exchange ideas and experiences and to think through how best to apply learning in one's own context.
“I am very grateful to the HRBA and the Leeds DAC for organising such a useful conference.”
The HRBA bring together those working for a secure future for historic religious buildings, and are an independently-funded group within the Heritage Alliance.
They provide briefings to members on matters of mutual interest, help them share information with each other, and publicise their activities via e-newsletter, while also holding briefing meetings and training days with speakers and discussion.
Resources from the day will be available here: http://www.hrballiance.org.uk/resources/major-projects.
The Leeds DAC is made up in part by Lisa McIntyre, Stephen Craven and Jen Read (pictured), and more information can be found at /dac.php.