This resource was originally based on a survey I developed for use by MANGO, the Mission and Next Generation Overview Group, serving the Northampton District of the Methodist Church. Helen Crofts has developed this further, to produce an audit that invites churches to examine the original aims of their project and question how this might have changed or developed. In addition, churches are encouraged to question who their project reaches out to. The audit then draws inspiration from the Church Army Research Unit’s Pitsmoor Cycle, to help leaders reflect on how what they offer allows people to feel blessed and therefore belong, to grow in their beliefs, to the point where this impacts their behaviour. Churches are encouraged to examine how their faith and values are underpinned by shared rituals (this may not be overtly religious and could be as simple as sharing a cup of coffee). Crucially, leaders are invited to reflect on how they can help people be ‘bothered’ enough about what they experience, to invite others. Helen ends with the question, ‘How do we continue to invite newcomers?
3_Peterborough methodist circuit mission audit 2
Rev Dr Langley Mackrell-Hey, a Methodist Minister with a passion for evangelism, discipleship, and mutual learning