This October 2024, Reconciliation Initiatives welcomed 21 church leaders from the Dioceses of Bristol, Leeds, Lincoln, and York to Launde Abbey, Leicester, launching our 4th Reconciling Mission cohort. Over a residential week, participants engaged in an exploration of what it means for the church to be a dynamic presence in our local communities.
The residential offered a rich blend of learning, reflection, and fellowship. Al Barrett and Paul Wright, experts in community-building, led five sessions that encouraged attendees to imagine new ways of creating a welcoming church which connects with local people and helps them to connect with one another. Paul commented, “I love co-facilitating these sessions with Al and playing a part in this awesome programme.”
The cohort was inspired by a session from Bishop Rosemary Mallett, Bishop of Croydon, who shared insights on resilience and renewal from Elijah’s journey through the wilderness. “That was really precious in terms of the personal journey I’ve been on,” one participant reflected. “It’s been about discovering that God’s call is not to dwell on the struggles but to keep going, to keep persevering.”
The week was described as a “banquet of ideas,” providing space for participants to step back from the daily demands of parish life, rediscover their sense of mission, and challenge preconceptions. “It’s been provocative,” one attendee said, “really sparking new ideas about how we might live out our mission.” The time away allowed participants to re-envision the church’s role within local neighbourhoods and consider how the church can connect more meaningfully with local life.
Empowerment emerged as a theme throughout the residential. The group of 21 leaders left feeling equipped to help their churches to draw on their existing strengths. One participant shared, “It’s empowering because it equips us. It draws out what’s already within us, and that’s what’s so motivating.”
The residential reinforced the vision of Reconciling Mission: that the church is called to be an active, integral part of their community rather than disengaged from local neighbourhood life.
Reflecting on the experience, Alastair McKay, Founder of Reconciliation Initiatives, observed, “It was humbling to see the honesty and openness each participant brought. Their unique contributions and willingness to share their journeys embodied the very heart of reconciliation.”
Over the next 18 months, this cohort will continue their journey exploring the way in which they engage with their community, grounded in their local context, reconciliation and genuine connection.
Our next cohort (5) begins in Spring 2025. If you believe the Reconciling Mission course could support your ministry or are interested on behalf of your diocese, please contact Alastair McKay at director@reconciliation-initiatives.org