From the 4-8th September 2008 SPEAK’s annual training event will be a chilled and inspiring weekend together in the South Cotswolds, where you and your friends can be equipped with the information and skills to make an impact.

Exploring our values in more depth, gathering wisdom about our campaigns, and resting on the journey - Vocal Training is an oasis for everyone walking the path of change-making.Book online here.

Walking the Talk

Last year we discovered more of ourselves and what our voice was. This year we will be focusing on how to make a bigger noise about injustice vocally but also through our lives and actions. How do we speak about what we’re doing? How do we live out what we’re speaking? Do actions really speak louder than words? And if so, how do we act and what action do we take?

We’ll be reflecting on our personal journeys toward justice, what it means to travel together as a Network, and how we walk alongside others.

With an upcoming Big Dress event and a whole year of local action to build up to we will be learning through…

• Practical workshops and resources to give you the seeds to sow the justice and shalom of God into your SPEAK group, Christian Union, cell group, church, university, workplace or local community

• Skills-based training, from using the media to sharing your faith, including practical training for the weekend at Waveform

• Gaining a deeper understanding of the issues behind SPEAK’s values and campaigns

• Getting thinking space to gain perspective, inspiration and re-engage with justice issues and prayerful campaigning

• Getting to know people with a similar heart and passion: sharing vision and being encouraged

• Relaxing and chilling out together!

Speakers and workshops from people in the network and friends of SPEAK will give you time to practice the skills you need for the activist life, share ideas and experiences, pray, and eat and talk together around the campfire!

When: 4-8th September 2008

Where: Mafeking Hall Camping ground, Coalpit Heath, near Bristol, BS36 2UF (Nearest station at Yate)

How much:

Fri 4th - Tues 8th Sep (camping): £50

Fri 4th - Sunday 6th Sep only (camping): £38

Fri 4th - Tues 8th Sep without camping: £40

Fri/Sat - Sunday only without camping: £30

Single days: £15

Costs for Vocal Training are kept as low as possible, and we’d love anyone who wants to be there to come, whatever their financial situation. Get in touch if you can’t manage these prices. Alternatively, donate more if you would like to, to help out others.

There is crashpad accommodation for those put off by camping. If you would prefer to find alternative accommodation locally, get in touch for a list of local guesthouses/B&B’s.

Please book early as places are limited!

We will also be preparing to take the Big Dress to Waveform the following weekend where we will share our campaigns, arts and spirituality from inside our very own Big Dress. All are welcome to join us as we go on from Vocal Training to Waveform!