From the Anglican Communion News Service
The English Diocese of Liverpool has set ten ‘tests’ for any proposed initiatives to help churches avoid doing anything that might hinder the work of God’s mission.
The diocese, which has 250 churches in both rural and urban settings in the north of the country, is said to be working towards “a sustainable, led and transforming Christian presence in every community in the diocese to enable all to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God”
Does each area of work or initiative:
- Encourage growth numerically or in spirituality?
- Support and reflect the church that we wish to become?
- Affirm mutual support and collaboration within the diocese?
- Strengthen relationships between parishes?
- Recognise the ethos and the characteristics of the diocese particularly highlighting issues peculiar to the diocese.
- Take appropriate account of the sustainability and viability issues of church buildings and congregations ?
- Provide for accountability throughout every step of the initiative within the diocese and beyond?
- Present an appropriate stewardship challenge?
- Provide appropriate support for local decision-making?
- Is the proposed system or process transparent and easily understood?
Are your mission initiatives assisted by considering these criteria?
