MISSION: ENCOURAGEMENT 2010
Why a Mission now?
The sixteen years since the Reverend John Acreman became our Rector have seen considerable growth in the Christian life of this Benefice. Alpha Courses have been held, Fellowship Groups and Bible Study Groups are active, Worship is imaginatively varied, Lay Ministry has been extended, and Pastoral Care strengthened by the addition of a fifth licensed minister. A highly popular 'Jesus and Me' Club for children and two youth groups are shared with the Baptists; our links with all the local denominations are stronger than they ever were. There is now a monthly Benefice Prayer Meeting, moving regularly round the four villages. The Ministry Team (now 12 strong) believes that the time is now right to prepare for a fortnight of bold and concentrated outreach to the people around us who are not yet part of the worshipping Christian family.
What is most needful now?
Therefore, from June 11th 2010 there will be two weeks of mission across the Benefice and shared with our partners in the sister denominations, with the title 'Encouragement 2010'. We are deeply aware that, to have any lasting effect, this must be God's Mission, focussed on the unique Saviour, Jesus Christ, and led by his Holy Spirit. Further, we know that none of this will happen without faithful, believing, urgent prayer on our part, starting now. We know too that most of us have far too little experience of this kind of commitment to prayer. That is one reason why we are asking for your help at this time. Will you join us in asking God to lead us in his Mission to see his Kingdom come in this area, with church congregations and communities lastingly transformed, and Jesus Christ glorified in our midst?
What next?
We shall be sending further news of 'Encouragement 2010' (probably quarterly through 2009, and then more frequently) to all who enlist as our prayer partners, as we now invite you to do.
Plans so far are:
November 2008 Preaching to concentrate on prayer.
November 23 2008 Bishop Colin, our Area Bishop, launches the period of mission
preparation at a Benefice Service in St. Peter's Hook Norton at
10 o'clock. Do join us if you can!
2009 (throughout) Prayer triplets are formed and training given.
June 11 - 20 2010 The Gospel is proclaimed throughout the neighbourhood in word
and action, music, art and drama. Leading Speakers have been
approached but have to wait until 2009 before committing
themselves. A Worship Leader, a Christian artist and an ordained
clown (!) have already agreed to come. We are excited!
We shall be so grateful if you feel able to become part of our prayer support in this adventure of faith. If you decide to make this commitment or wish to know more please contact Mrs. Lucia Turner at Rosemullion, High Street, Great Rollright OX7 5RQ
