A Heartfelt Visit to Bury St Edmunds Seventh-Day Adventist Church

Today marked a very special moment in my mayoral journey, my first ever visit to a Seventh-Day Adventist church. To be honest, I didn’t quite know what to expect. But as with all new experiences, I went in with an open mind and a clean heart, ready to learn, listen, and connect. What unfolded was something quite remarkable.

From the moment I walked through the doors of the Bury St Edmunds Seventh-Day Adventist Church, I was welcomed with such warmth and kindness that any nerves I may have had simply melted away. There was no judgment, no feeling of being an outsider, only smiles, handshakes, and genuine hospitality. It reinforced a belief I try to live by: never judge something or someone you don’t know. Approach every new person and experience with openness and grace.

Now, I must warn you, these lovely people have a way of getting to your heart, and they certainly got to mine! Just as I was feeling completely at home, they invited us to a spread of desserts that can only be described as divine. From beautifully presented cakes to mouth-watering puddings, it was a feast that culminated in a show-stopping cake in the perfect shape of their church building. It was a small but powerful reminder of their pride, creativity, and sense of community.

During the service, I listened attentively to previous pastors speak, each message filled with purpose and wisdom. I was humbled to be invited to give a short speech myself, and it was heartening to feel so warmly received by the congregation. What struck me most, however, was the beautiful diversity in the room. Though united by faith, the church is made up of members from thirteen different nations, one of them Portuguese, which of course was a lovely surprise! And yet, they all blended seamlessly into one caring, supportive, united family.

If ever there was an example of what a multicultural society can and should look like, this was it. It was a powerful reminder that when we come together with open hearts, shared values, and mutual respect, we can thrive as one. My Consort (my wonderful husband) and I could have stayed for hours, happily chatting and exchanging ideas with everyone, many of whom were Thetford residents too! If not for our parking limitations, we surely would have.

If I had to sum up this community in a single phrase, it would be this:"Help one another with no judgements and an open heart."

As we joined in their celebration of the church’s 125-year-old building, I was struck by their chosen theme:"Honouring the past, celebrating the present, building the future."A sentiment so meaningful and forward-looking, I think I’ll happily borrow it as a guiding statement for my own mayoral year.

Thank you, Bury St Edmunds Seventh-Day Adventist Church, for such a heartwarming and enriching experience, and for the many new friends we made today with gratitude and joy.