Ahead of Volunteers’ Week 2026 (1st – 7th June), this month’s Spotlight article visits Manchester, whose DC recently hosted a special day of thanks to those who make it all possible…
It has often been said, and yet cannot be overstated; volunteers are the lifeblood of our churches. Across our Union, it is the kindness, commitment, and dedication of volunteers that keeps our communities and cnetres thriving week after week.
From welcoming visitors at the church door and preparing refreshments, to maintaining church buildings, serving on committees, organising events, and supporting healing and demonstrations, every act of service helps sustain the religion and community we cherish.
Much of this work takes place quietly behind the scenes, often without expectation of recognition, yet it forms the foundation upon which Spiritualist churches continue to grow and serve their communities.
To honour those invaluable contributions, Manchester District Council hosted a special ‘Celebration of Volunteers’ Day on Saturday 16th May at Horwich Spiritualist Church. Organised by Pat Redman, President of Manchester District Council, together with her committee, the event brought together volunteers, church workers, supporters, and friends from across the district for an afternoon dedicated to appreciation, gratitude, and fellowship.
“Our volunteers are at the heart of our religion. They give so much of their time and care to support SNU Spirituaism and their local communities, often without expecting recognition or reward.”
Reflecting on the importance of volunteering within Spiritualism, Pat said: “Our volunteers are at the heart of our religion. They give so much of their time and care to support SNU Spiritualism and their local communities, often without expecting recognition or reward.”
She added: “Whether it is the person welcoming everyone at the church door, handing out hymn books, making the tea, cleaning the church, or serving as a Trustee, every single volunteer plays an important part. Without their kindness and dedication, we would not have the beautiful religion and community we cherish today.”
The celebration served not only as an awards ceremony, but also as an opportunity to recognise the spirit of service that exists throughout the District and, by extension, the Union as a whole. Attendees were reminded that volunteering is far more than practical support — it is an expression of compassion, commitment, and Spiritualist values in action.
Throughout the afternoon, a number of outstanding individuals and churches were recognised for their dedication and achievements.
A host of awards were handed out at Manchester’s celebration day, recognising excellence across the District.
Joan Thornton, of St Helens Spiritualist Church, received the Mavis Pittilla Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of her exceptional commitment and service. Taelor Collins, from Salford Spiritualist Centre, was presented with the Andrew Jackson Davis Young Volunteer of the Year Award, celebrating the important role younger members continue to play in shaping the future of Spiritualism.
The Minister Dennis Jackson Healer of the Year Award was presented to Mary Splaine, also of Salford Spiritualist Centre, honouring her dedication to healing and spiritual service.
Church recognition awards were also presented during the afternoon, with both Oldham Spiritualist Church and Salford Spiritualist Centre receiving the Emma Hardinge Britten Church of the Year Award for their continued work within their communities and commitment to Spiritualist principles.
Certificates of Excellence were additionally awarded to Lara Corless, Mary Bailey, Susan Caldwell, Sylvia Patrick, and Katrina Cooke in recognition of their valued service and dedication.
The awards were presented by Sean Taylor, Vice President of the SNU, alongside Jean Else, wife of the late Mavis Pittilla, and Susan Naz Jones, a dear friend of the late Pauline Jackson. Their presence brought an added sense of warmth and significance to the occasion, reflecting the enduring legacy of service and commitment represented by the awards themselves.
“We have dedicated our lives to service. Service of spirit, both incarnate and discarnate… in short, we live our religion.”
The afternoon concluded with fellowship and conversation over a beautifully prepared afternoon tea, served by the District Council committee. The relaxed atmosphere gave attendees the opportunity to celebrate together, share experiences, and acknowledge the friendships and community spirit that volunteering so often creates.
Special thanks were also extended to Janet McMannus and the committee of Horwich Spiritualist Church for hosting the event and helping to make the day such a memorable success.
Events such as Manchester’s celebration day also reflect a wider spirit of gratitude increasingly recognised across the SNU, where volunteers continue to form what has often been described as “the beating heart” of Modern Spiritualism.
So much of the day-to-day life of SNU Spiritualism continues because of people willing to give their time in service to others and to the religion they love.
After the awards and recognition, a special afternoon tea gave members and volunteers of the District a chance to celebrate together, share experiences and enjoy the camraderie of Spiritualism.
Reflecting on the importance of voluntary service throughout the Union, Miriam Fitzgerald OSNU previously spoke of the far-reaching role volunteers play, particularly within the Ministry and pastoral support of the SNU. It is often easy to overlook how many of our officials, such as Ministers, are volunteers, too.
“Like many of the volunteers within the movement, the members of the Ministry play a vital role in leadership and development of the Union, its District Councils and churches,” she explained. “We serve on committees — local, regional and national — all of which is crucial and voluntary work.”
Miriam also highlighted how volunteer service extends far beyond administration and organisation alone, adding: “Through pastoral care work, confidential talks and prison visits, we live our Seven Principles, supporting — both individually and collectively — those who may be vulnerable or in need.”
Perhaps most powerfully of all, she summarised the spirit of Spiritualist volunteering in a simple but deeply resonant reflection: “As members of the Ministry, we have dedicated our lives to service. Service of spirit both incarnate and discarnate… In short, we live our religion.”
It is that same spirit of service, compassion and community that was so clearly reflected throughout Manchester District Council’s celebration — a reminder that behind every successful church, event, healing service, demonstration, or welcoming cup of tea, there are volunteers quietly giving of themselves to help Spiritualism continue to flourish.
by Kyle Pedley, SNU Head of Communications
with contributions from Patricia Redman, President of Manchester District Council.
first published Friday 22nd May 2026.
For more information on Manchester District Council, please consider following their Facebook Page!
For more information on Volunteers’ Week 2026, visit the official Volunteers’ Week Website.
If you would like your Church, Centre or District to be considered for an upcoming Spotlight visit and article, please drop us an email on communications.events@snu.org.uk, outlining your interest and reasons for a visit.
The Spotlight series is intended to showcase, highlight and champion good practice and notable achievements at church or district level.