Derek Barnes

I am something of an "Ecumenical Christian". I was born and christened in an Anglican church in South Yorkshire. Attended a Congregational Sunday School in West Yorkshire and since 1982 have been a member of Summerbridge Methodist Church in North Yorkshire. Born & Bred in this great county!

Although I have a degree in Industrial Chemistry, I spent my working life in Bradford & Bingley Building Society, Homeowners Friendly Society and the AQA Examination Board in administration at management and director level.

I accepted Jesus as my saviour in 1965 whilst attending Bingley Independent Methodist Church. I was recognised as an IM Minister in 1979 and served in that role until 2012. During that period, I also served on the IM Connexion mainly in the Home Missions Team as well as the Yorkshire IM Circuit rep.

I moved to Dacre Banks, in the Pateley Bridge Circuit, in 1982 with my wife and two children. I served on the Plan as a "Visiting Minister' until 2002 when I became a Methodist Local Preacher. Apart from my 42 year preaching ministry, I have served Summerbridge Church and the Pateley Circuit in various capacities including Trustee, Leadership Team, Music Group, Circuit Steward and also now as Mission Area Representative, this seeming a natural step following an interesting time on the Bridge Circuit Development Team.

My family and I have been so blessed during a life of service for an amazing God and am wondering if and when I am allowed to retire!!