On Wednesday 5th July, Mission Community Leaders met with our three bishops, area deans and colleagues from St John's House. It was a really positive day and a unique opportunity to bring all our Mission Community Leaders together for a time of reflection, listening and fellowship together.
Bishop David opened the day by looking back on the progress that has been made over the last 18 months and giving thanks for the work of Mission Community Leaders for the huge role they have played in this.
Mike McGurk, Head of Church Growth and Evangelism facilitated the first session of the day by considering what contributes to church growth. Bishop Matthew contributed to this session by sharing his experiences and explaining his own vision for growth in the Church. The group also heard from Revd Vinny Whitworth and Revd Nicola Butterworth on the successful youth work being delivered in partnership across the Bolton West Mission Community.
The second session of the day focussed on how we are 'Equipped for the Challenges (and Opportunities)' and was facilitated by Bishop Mark Davies. Mission Community Leaders took time together to explore the challenges and opportunities within their mission communities. Revd Andy Salmon shared an update on the support and value of the Action Learning Set he has established for Mission Community Leaders.
The final session of the day looked at the Transformation Programme and was facilitated by Dan Caffrey, Transformation Director. Mission Community leaders considered what the Transformation Programme means to them, they also discussed and celebrated the successes within their own Mission Communities. The day ended with a shared Eucharist.
Over the summer all of the thoughts and feedback from the day will be discussed by the Bishop's Leadership Team and those involved in running the Transformation Programme to look at how to bring continued improvements to support Mission Community Leaders in the great work they are doing.