A Methodist preacher who works as an award-winning magician says she is using illusions to help communicate the Christian Gospel.

Bronwyn Coveney, who performs professionally as Bron Ivy, is a local preacher with Teddington Methodist Circuit in Surrey and an Associate Member of the Inner Magic Circle.

"The magic is just there to give an illustration," she said. "What matters most in Gospel magic is the Gospel."

Coveney became a local preacher in 2022, after becoming involved with East Molesey Methodist Church when she moved to Surrey with her husband.

Her interest in magic developed after attending a Christian creative ministries festival, where performers used puppetry, science experiments, juggling and illusions to communicate Bible stories.

But she draws a clear distinction between stage magic and the miracles described in the Bible.

"I won't ever replicate any of Jesus' miracles because I don't perform miracles; I perform magic," she said.

"Jesus is the miracle worker, I'm not."

Coveney says there is considerable crossover between preparing a magic show and writing a sermon, with both requiring her to find ways to connect with an audience.

But she says the illusion must never overshadow its purpose.

"The challenge with Gospel illusion is that everything needs to be strong, and the message needs to be stronger than the magic," she said.