JUNE UPDATE
Since the confirmatory vote the Navigation Team, Clergy Leadership and Change Teams have all been working toward our goal to become the Larger Single Parish (LSP) of Christ Our Light. As well as the ongoing mission and ministry among our local parishes and communities there has been prayer, discernment and work from many people in our parishes and also form the support staff in St James House and the Fit for Mission Team.
Progress so far…
1. Draft Deanery Plan for the LSP
Between March and April 2025 all legally interested parties were consulted on the Draft Deanery Plan. The responses and outcomes of the confirmatory vote are now reflected in v9 which has been approved by Liverpool South Deanery Synod. This will now be sent to the Diocesan Mission and Pastoral Committee for their approval.
2. Shared Discipleship Course - Be Still
Some of our congregation members from across Christ Our Light joined together for the Lent course, ‘Be Still.’ This has already inspired Brenda Gibson from Speke to start a prayerful art group every Wednesday in St Aidan’s 12-2pm.. all are welcome! Feedback about the opportunity to grow deeper together as disciples has led us to expand the invitation to the current prayer course which started w/c 2nd June at 3 Venues.
3. Joint Worship @ All Saints Speke
We had a great turn out for our shared worship event in All Saints Speke on May 11th… look out for the next event. It’s a great opportunity to get to know each other better, pray with and for each other and find out what is going on…
4. Expressions of interest for the Rector Designate
The new larger single parish will need a Rector designate to be appointed from within the current clergy leaders. Archdeacon Miranda has invited expression of interest! We will keep you updated!
5. Shadow PCC
We are currently in the process of forming a Shadow PCC to help us transition from 6 single parishes to a single larger parish. Expressions of interest orms have been sent to all PCC secretaries.
6. Budget Planning and Operations Manager
The Support Services Team, Navigation Team and Clergy Leadership Team have been working with the FFM Team to set a budget for the LSP. We have decided to appoint an Ops Manager to oversee this and we are in the process of advertising for this post. Click image below for more details
7. Communication
We would like each parish to have a good news champion. We hare delighted that Rev Tom Langdon-Smith has taken over as Change Team Lead. for Communications. We are also exploring website ideas for the larger single parish and are working with a graphic designer to refine the parish logo!
8. Buildings
The Right Buildings Team lead by Rev Gareth Morgan have completed their site visits and workshops and finalising their report and recommendations!
9. Purpose, Vision and Values
At a Residential the The Clergy Leadership Team explored the Purpose, Vision and Values of the CLT , and prayerfully discerned the following
Christ the Light - Purpose
To support one another personally and in ministry by meeting together, praying together, sharing honestly challenges and encouragement, planning strategically so that we are equipped to flourish in ministry and work collaboratively to deliver the vision.
Christ the Light - Vision
For Christ our Light to be a diverse, flourishing and fruitful community where God’s healing, saving power is the norm.
Christ the Light - Values
- A parish that is biblical and Christ-like
- A people who are courageous in faith
- Offering radical welcome and generous hospitality and a place for meaningful belonging where all people can passionately celebrate God and each other.
10. Clergy
Rev Kirsty White formally Curate in Penny Lane Church has appointed as Vicar to Springwood, All Souls. Grassendale have completed their Parish Profile for a 0.5 priest in charge and are working with the Diocese to make advertise and make an appointment as soon as possible.
11. Mission Planning
Rev Frank Hinds will be working with key lay and licensed missional leaders from our 6 parishes to agree a strategy for mission in the larger single parish. The Mission Planning Workshop will happen on Thursday 19 June.
To find out more about Fit for Mission visit the Diocesan Website.