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Testimonies

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We love hearing stories about how people came to faith and what their faith means to them. Twelve people from across the diocese share their testimonies....

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Testimony - Canon Ian Loynd

"I grew up in rural Devon, shaped by faith and community. Church life was always there—worship, singing, and serving. As a teacher in a church school, both my career and my relationship with God deepened. Though my journey seems unremarkable, I’ve learned that nothing is ordinary to the God who created me. There were hard moments—especially at university, when facing my sexuality led to real spiritual struggle. I felt lost, but even then, God was gently calling me back. I began to pray, “Here I am, Lord. I am yours.” That prayer brought peace. If you’re feeling restless or unsure of your worth, know this: God sees you, loves you, and gave His Son for you. That’s truly remarkable."

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Helen Millard - Licensed Lay Minister

"Church life was always part of growing up, but faith felt more like routine than relationship. That changed at age 19, when an unexpected pregnancy brought a sudden awareness of God’s presence and the support of a caring priest. Naming my son Jonathan—“gift from God”—I began a journey of deepening trust in God’s love. Through years of working in childcare and special education, God continued to guide and surprise me. A wrong turn during vocation discernment became a turning point, leading to joyful Reader training and new friendships. Now serving as Warden of Readers, I know that even on the darkest days, God is near, still knocking, still leading—faithful through it all."

Revd Andrew Nelmes

"I thought I discovered God, but the truth is—He found me first… Faith is alive and real, even in difficult times—God walks with us. When God called me, I simply knew. God has a purpose for each of us. We are His ‘living stones’—unique, imperfect, yet chosen. It is His work within us that allows us to follow His will."

Esther Moody - Ministry Area Warden

"Jesus was a part of my life from the start, growing up in Papua New Guinea where my parents were missionaries. I thought my calling would take me far, but in a moment of uncertainty, God showed me His plan wasn’t about distance—it was about obedience. I prayed, surrendered my own desires, and realised my mission field was right where I was. Through highs and lows, I trust Him completely. He has a plan for you too—keep looking up!"

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Karen Mottram, Licensed Lay Minister

"In a season of struggle and rejection, I poured out my heart to God, longing for a grand miracle but receiving quiet promises instead. A year later, a stranger unexpectedly affirmed those promises with a message of wild daisies—God’s reminder of His constant goodness. Now, everywhere I look, those simple flowers remind me that, no matter the hardships, His faithfulness and love endure."

Revd Dawn Lindsay

"God has always been part of my life, even without a churchgoing family. Childhood prayers and teenage Sundays deepened my faith. Life got busy, but finding St Dyfrigs felt like coming home. After years of encouragement and a profound experience, I followed God’s call to ordination. My faith gives me strength, peace, and purpose—it’s my foundation every step of the way."

Revd Justin Groves

"Since the age of 11, my faith in Jesus has inspired me to dream big and serve Him, even when others don’t understand. I strive to love like He did, especially those who are struggling. My church community, though imperfect, reflects His light and love. Giving brings us joy, and I feel privileged to serve alongside others, experiencing glimpses of the early church in action."

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Testimony - Revd Wendy Tayler

"I grew up in a Christian home but chased the thrill of weekends. Deep down, I longed for my parents’ faith. One day, facing a tough truth, I prayed God wouldn’t leave me. In my parents’ embrace, I felt His presence. Since then, He’s been my strength. Life with Christ isn’t easy, but it’s the best decision I ever made!"

Testimony - Revd James Henley

"As a teenager, my faith shifted from knowing about God to truly knowing Jesus. Raised in church, I wrestled with intellectual arguments but ultimately found assurance in God’s unshakable presence. Through life’s highs and lows, trusting in Jesus as my guardian and friend became my foundation. Now, as a husband, father, and priest, I remain deeply grateful for His constant presence in my life."

Testimony - Revd Sarah Rosser

"Seeking purpose, I turned to fleeting sources of happiness but felt lost. A powerful moment in the Brecon Beacons led me to realize God’s presence, and I embraced faith. Church restored my hope, giving me joy that sustains me through life’s ups and downs. God’s love and forgiveness continue to free me, allowing me to grow and thrive."

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Canon Peter Lea

Faith is a journey of learning and growth, rooted in the unchanging truth of Christ’s resurrection and love. Though I stumble, I seek guidance and strive to do better. Prayer has taught me to trust God’s timing, knowing that His answers may come in unexpected ways—but always with mercy and grace.

Mary Heading, Ministry Area Administrator

Mary’s faith journey began in childhood through her curiosity about church teaching and deepened as she participated in worship. She found peace, reflection, and a loving community in her church, which became a vital source of strength—especially after losing her mother at 16. Her faith continues to evolve, and she remains committed to helping others experience God’s presence, knowing that faith is a lifelong journey of growth and discovery.

The Rt Revd Cherry Vann, Bishop of Monmouth

"As a child who was intensely shy, deeply introverted and hated the limelight, I was probably one of the least likely of people to become a priest, never mind a bishop. But God has God’s ways of leading us to where God wants us to be and shaping us for the work God wants us to fulfil."