MISSIONS

The Anglican Church of South India is made up of 22 Dioceses. Each Diocese has its own Bishop and Diocesean Board to govern its region.Dioceses are made up of a collection of parishes looked after by a Diocesan Bishop. So a diocese marks out the geographical extent of the bishop’s role.

Each diocese is divided into parishes.Parish Churches remain at the core of our understanding of how we serve our city.Each Diocese is a series of small villages and neighbourhoods, and the concept of ‘parish’ still has real traction, even though people may commute across parish boundaries to attend their church of choice. Overlaying the parish system, and complementary to it, are other forms including chaplaincies, youth & ethnically-based congregations and ‘missional communities’.

1.1 Network Churches -

2. Church planting We continue to pursue a vigorous policy of Church Planting wherever mission opportunity arises, and wherever possibilities can be created. In developing Church Planting as a form of mission, we will: Encourage healthy churches to consider Church Planting as part of their mission strategy Review struggling churches, especially at the key moment of a vacancy Examine the need to plant into unchurched localities, including new housing areas.

A healthy church is one which: Is growing spiritually, numerically and financially. Owns a vision. Encourages all its members to play their part and use their gifts. Enjoys worship and prayerfully seeks God’s purpose and direction. Is willing to take risks. Has different opportunities to share faith and study together. Has effective and respected leadership. Is engaged with the society it serves.

3.Community ministry The Community Ministry team aim to facilitate learning, inspiration and support among this network. We do this through: Theology – Encouraging parishes to develop a theological perspective in relation to their community involvement and concern. Resources – A hub of ideas, courses, articles, reports, organisations, events, training and stories – shared through the website, enews and twitter feed. Face to face support – Helping parishes to identify the needs of their local community and decide how to get involved. Sharing best practice – Linking up churches to share best practice.