How we developed the plan
We had two listening days during 2023 – in May online, in June in person. People were invited to make additional submissions. The results were on display at both centres for 2 weeks each. They were then discussed and synthesised by the Mission Action Plan (MAP) committee and priorities were presented to Parish Council for approval in August 2023. Each Centre endorsed the plan at their September meetings.
The four quadrants of the plan represent four phases
The axes represent implementation (doing the work), from simple to complex; and missional focus from outward (serving, attracting and growing the church, planting seeds), to inward (fellowship, discipleship and growing in faith, nurturing the plant to bear fruit). Simple to implement also means can be easily negotiated and resourced. Complex to implement means a higher level of negotiation and/or resources will be needed.
Quadrant 1: Ideas we want to progress as our first priority
We will start with the things we saw as simple to implement and outwardly focused in mission.
o Engaging with the outside community
o Baptism working group, then an ongoing team for baptisms
o Internal communications review
o Diversity banners and signage for both churches
o Engaging children and young people
What happens next – progressing other ideas
In order of priority, we would then move to two, then three, then four. Nothing has been lost, but we have to prioritise into bite-sized chunks. If there’s something lower on the list of priorities that people would like to progress, some may take the initiative to implement after appropriate consultation and endorsement. There will be a regular review of our progress by the MAP committee and PC; and a report to the AGM. Things will change and evolve as we continually review the plan through the MAP committee. There will be a wider review around August-September 2024, at which stage we might formally add to or change our priorities, as we refocus and respond to emerging needs.
How you can help
If you’re part of our faith community, or want to get involved, you can speak to a member of the clergy or Parish Council about:
o how we can learn and grow together
o ways in which you can help, things you feel passionate about
o areas and activities that interest you, but you don’t feel equipped to do or need some training in