The “Singing Kettle” – Methodist on the Move
Rev Lorna Dreaning, with the “Singing Kettle”
With the support of the Creative Ministries Grant, we brought to life a unique and heartfelt vision: The “Singing Kettle”, a mobile prayer cottage designed to offer people a place to meet, retreat and pray.
Built on wheels, it allows us to bring peace, prayer and the presence of God directly to communities, events and gatherings – wherever there is a need for hope. The world is searching for peace and the Singing Kettle offers a gentle invitation to experience it. Every person who steps inside, whether a moment of stillness or a time of intercession, is reminded that God sees them, loves them and meets them wherever they are.
Since launching, we’ve been to Rossnowlagh and Ballyshannon shows in Donegal, Fintona Church and Clogher Show in Tyrone, Enniskillen Show, Lisbellaw, Kesh, Armagh Show, Portadown, Castlewellan and many other gatherings including a special Santa to Saviour, live nativity held at Letterbreen at Christmas.
The grant has helped us
· Pay for trade stand at agriculture shows
· Offer hot tea and coffee as a gesture of warmth and welcome
· Create and share encouraging bags, pens, stickers that carry scripture and uplifting messages
· Have meaningful conversations and prayer times with individuals seeking connection and comfort
This has become more than an outreach – it’s a movement of intentional presence, meeting people right where they are. The singing kettle has sparked conversations, planted seeds of faith, and reminded many that they are not alone.
One story, we offered a Bible to a family passing by. The family exchanged glances and the man replied “Actually we have never read the Bible. Not once. We weren’t raised religious. I don’t even think we have one in the house”. I hesitated for a moment, then gently asked “Would you be open to receiving one?” The man replied yes so I handed them a simple NIV Bible and offered a short prayer for their family’s well-being. As they sat as a family to eat their burger and chips later at a nearby seat, I saw them reading it. The visit lasted less than 5 minutes but it was about planting a seed and letting God do the growing.
We’re deeply grateful for the grant that has helped us pay into shows and provided some merchandise. It’s been a catalyst for creativity and community and we are committed to continuing this work with humility, joy and faith under the mantra “Methodists on the move, connecting with communities”.
We believe this is just the beginning of what God is doing through this ministry. Your prayers, support and encouragement mean more than words can say.
Robert Kerr
If you would like to stay connected, host The Singing Kettle, or find out how to get involved, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact Robert Kerr on 07790 829115 or the Rev Lorna Dreaning on 07704 579840.
The Methodist Church in Ireland is committed to the ongoing learning and development of its lay people and to the ministries they are involved in. To further enable this, creative ministries grants were made available to lay people within the Methodist Church in Ireland, whether voluntary or employed, for exploring, starting or maintaining creative ministries within their local church/context.