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Applying the circuit principle

I don’t want to be perceived as knocking the structures of Methodism. They are its very genius! This applies to the foundational concept of circuit. Circuits were created to support mission using the principle of shared resources. This was acted out in planting new congregations – the strong (resourceful) helping the weak. This has always been a symbiotic relationship and not a one directional flow. The problem is most churches; even the large ones are in survival mode with little spare capacity to look beyond their own needs. So the challenge of leadership is not to become parochial. I am glad to read in the Statistics for Mission report that the rate of church closures has slowed to just 100 a year as opposed to 150! I am not advocating propping up dying causes, but the loss of a rural/small town chapels should be a cause for heart-break. I suggest as an organisation we have become too reliant on the minister for leadership. Yes the minister brings a wider perspective and specific t...
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Preparations for 100 mile cycle challenge

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Steve and Pete at the start of the Devon Demon Back last autumn shortly after I retired, my son Pete challenged me to a sponsored cycle ride. I think he felt I needed the challenge of something new to prepare for and  motivation to take more exercise! I agreed to the 100 mile Nello which is organised by a cancer charity local to Exeter. In order to have wider appeal than just the area around Exeter we decided to go for a charity which has a national brief. We have chosen Cancer Research UK for the great work it is doing in researching the causes of cancer to help find new ways of treatment and cure. My wife Sue had breast cancer 18 months ago which brings the reality of cancer closer to home and Pete is an oncology consultant so this charity also fitted well with his interests. Agreeing to something when it is still far off in the future is one thing, preparing for the event as it comes ever closer is another. I have been trying to up my muscle tone and stamina over the winter...
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Reflections on emerging church week

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Of all the input during the MEC2 (Emerging Church 2) week the contribution of Stuart Murray rates as my most informative. His reflective style and radical thinking makes him stimulating to listen to. Just look at this quote from his book Post Christendom ‘ This does not mean churches without leaders, or that trained and accredited women and men should not be deployed in strategic roles within and among congregations. But it means determined and sustained action to erode clericalism, redefine church leadership, empower the whole people of God for ministry and recalibrate churches as missionary communities.’ I find that a great challenge. It takes me back to my calling to be first and foremost a follower of Jesus Christ. My leadership calling has to be worked out in the light of being a follower. I am stirred by the call to servant leadership and have been inspired by David Clark's book Breaking the Mould of Christendom. The contribution from the Dranes was also stimulating. As part ...
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