Mission Communities
Mission Communities: Cumbria’s ecumenical network fulfilling the
God for All
Vision
Mission Communities are groupings of mutually supportive and collaborative churches, pioneers, fresh expressions of faith and community groups which have mission at their heart.
Mission Communities draw on partnerships formed since 2015 between Anglican, Methodist, United Reformed and Salvation Army churches, alongside other companion denominations, to foster unity and diverse gifts in every part of Cumbria
The fundamental unit of mission remains the local Church, so Mission Communities do not seek to replace the local church, either parishes or denominational traditions. Rather, they seek to make the most of the gifts that God has given us.
Why Mission Communities in Cumbria?
Cumbrian Mission Communities unite local churches, pioneers, and community groups under the God for All vision to share leadership, resources and mission for greater local impact
Prayer
Mission Communities prioritise establishing regular patterns of prayer, recognizing it as the bedrock of communal life and mission. This commitment fosters unity and spiritual growth among members
Discipleship
They are dedicated to nurturing the discipleship journey of all Christians, providing opportunities for learning and spiritual development to deepen faith and understanding .
Vocations
Mission Communities actively encourage individuals to explore and embrace various vocations, including ordained ministry, lay leadership, and other forms of service, recognising the diverse gifts within the community
Stewardship
By managing resources wisely, mission communities emphasise responsible stewardship of time, talents, and resources, ensuring that all contributions are utilised effectively to support the Church’s mission and community needs .
Efficient Operation
Mission Communities aim to operate efficiently by fostering collaboration among churches and minimising unnecessary bureaucratic layers, allowing for more dynamic and responsive ministry.
Mission
At their core, Mission Communities are committed to collaborative mission work, reaching out to local communities through various initiatives to share the message and love of Christ .
Mission Community Resources
These resources are available to help guide and support mission communities and their leaders
Garden Planner Web Version
The Garden Planner is a short booklet which draws on the imagery of a flourishing garden to help those in our mission communities consider what ‘growth’ looks like in their context.
Mission Community Leader Guidance
Guidance to help mission community leaders in their role
Garden Planner Large Print
The larger print version of the garden planner.
Garden Planner Print Version
This version of the Garden Planner is a single page version suitable for printing.
Mission Community Leader Guidance
Guidance to help mission community leaders in their role
Garden Planner Large Print
The larger print version of the garden planner.
Visit the Tool Shed to help cultivate your garden and grow a mixed ecology of church
Governance and Leadership
- Each Mission Community chooses its own ministerial mix; stipendiary, non-stipendiary or self-supporting.
- Leaders (often ordained ministers) are supported by Archdeacons acting as Strategic Development Officers.
- Peer leaders meet regularly for accountability, encouragement and shared learning.
Download the Mission Community Leader Guide
Gatherings and Activities
- Regular joint worship, prayer gatherings and training sessions, often over shared meals to build relationships.
- Collaborative outreach events: holiday clubs, care initiatives and community festivals across the year
- Festival of Fresh Expressions and annual planning days to renew vision and strategise together.
- Each Mission Community chooses its own ministerial mix; stipendiary, non-stipendiary or self-supporting.
- Leaders (often ordained ministers) are supported by Archdeacons acting as Strategic Development Officers.
- Peer leaders meet regularly for accountability, encouragement and shared learning.
Download the Mission Community Leader Guide
- Regular joint worship, prayer gatherings and training sessions, often over shared meals to build relationships.
- Collaborative outreach events: holiday clubs, care initiatives and community festivals across the year
- Festival of Fresh Expressions and annual planning days to renew vision and strategise together.