The Big Society in Action

Last night 100 key leaders from the nine mainstream denominations of the Christian Church in Leicester and Leicestershire gathered to discuss how they might work together over the next three years to most effectively continue to serve the communities of which they are part.

A recent survey concluded that Christians in the UK contribute seventy two million hours a year of voluntary time serving their local communities. Over the next four years groups of Christian churches in villages and market towns across Leicestershire, as well as in the city are partnering together to build on these 72m hour in a range of initiatives. These initiatives will focus on serving those in need both in practical ways and by sharing the message of life, hope and love found in Jesus Christ which lies at the heart of all they do.

Last night’s event, held at Leicester College, was addressed passionately by a range of speakers keen to build on the many positive things already going on. In closing the evening the Bishop of Leicester, Rt Revd Tim Stevens said, “Tonight’s gathering has reminded us all of the urgent need for the churches to get active in serving our communities and especially the poor as we enter ‘the age of austerity’. It has offered us a vision of what the Big Society could be.”

Revd Dianne Tidball of the East Midlands Baptist Association, and chair of the Churches Together in Leicestershire group, commented, it was “great to be amongst so many people enthusiastic for the mission of God and inspiring to hear of so many initiatives to connect our communities with Christ’s love”

The aim of the evening was to provide a ‘missional menu’ of opportunities for churches working together to engage in mission over the coming four years. This vision casting included exploring the possibilities surrounding the Olympic and Para-Olympic Games through ‘More than Gold’, the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible through Biblefresh and keynote speaker Roy Crowne, Executive Director of Hope Together shared an inspiring vision of churches working together in word and deed evangelism.

For more information on any of these and how you church might be involved please contact Diocesan Mission Enabler, Revd Barry Hill, barry.hill@leccofe.org