Conference Chaplains

Thank you for considering being a chaplain at the Proximity Conference this May.

What is Proximity Conference?

The Proximity Conference 2026 is a two-day gathering hosted by Proximity and the Eden Network on 15th & 16th May at The Message Trust HQ in Greater Manchester. It brings together Christians passionate about urban mission — those living, serving, worshipping, or ministering in urban and estate contexts — for encouragement, equipping, connection, and mutual support through worship, prayer, teaching, and practical resources rooted in urban mission.

This year’s focus is JOY. Urban ministry can be tough and demanding, so we’re shaping the programme around a deep, resilient joy that sits alongside the realities of leadership.

More information about the conference programme, speakers and details can be found here.

Many leaders ministering in urban and estate contexts tell us they experience isolation and loneliness. They often carry significant responsibility, with little space to process the personal and spiritual weight of their work.

Conferences like Proximity offer connection and community with others who “get it”. Some will attend on their own and may value a safe, welcoming space to talk and pray. Chaplains help ensure that no one slips through the cracks and that as many people as possible leave strengthened, encouraged, and cared for.

The role involves:

Presence & Pastoral Care: Being available to listen, offer prayer, and encourage where needed.
Prayer: Praying informally with attendees, and being available to pray in Conference ministry times at the end of each day.
Signposting: Directing practical conference questions to the information desk and pointing people to the Proximity stand for on-site resources.

The role is likely to mean missing parts of the main sessions.

• Please complete the volunteer registration form, including two references, and return it to [email protected] (this is not required if you are an employee of The Message Trust).
• If you have a current enhanced DBS certificate, please email a copy to us. If not, let us know and we’ll be happy to arrange a DBS check for you.
• Lunch will be provided, please let us know in advance if you have any dietary requirements.
• A conference T-shirt and lanyard will be available for you on arrival (t-shirt’s are optional!)
• Travel expenses can be covered—please feel free to email Theresa for more details.
• We ask that all volunteers arrive onsite at 9:00am on both Friday and Saturday to meet Mike Coates for a short briefing.

Chaplaincy Team Leader – Mike Coates
Mike recently retired after over twenty-five years of Anglican ministry in urban, inner-city, and estate contexts. He has a particular heart for recognising and responding to God’s work among those on the margins. Now widowed, Mike is settling into a new church community while discerning God’s next call. Beyond ministry, he enjoys walking football, follows his local team, and volunteers in community programmes.