‍

Diocesan Moderators and Moderators Elect journeyed to Surrey last week, for two days of formation, discussion and discernment on the continued progress of the Pastoral Plan “The Word Who is Life” across the Diocese. Three former deaneries completed the canonical processes to become new parishes last year, with Brighton & Hove’s 11 churches forming a parish community in September, followed by Guildford (16 churches and Mass centres), and Weybridge (9 churches) in December.

Last week’s gathering - which was also attended by Canon Jonathan Martin, Canon Kieron O’Brien, Monsignor Tony Barry, Fr David Osborne, Deacon Nick St John and staff from our diocesan central office, The St Philip Howard Centre - offered an important chance to reflect on the opportunities for mission and evangelisation afforded by the Pastoral Plan, while exploring practical next steps in prayer, formation and mission - including building strong clergy teams, parish councils and lay leadership teams, and developing a parish vision.

Reflecting on the continued importance of the Plan, Canon Kieron O’Brien said: “The Word Who is Life remains central to the work of the Church in our Diocese. While there are certain canonical processes that we can’t undertake without a bishop, there are many others that we can, with greater collaboration across our parishes and the sharing of resources. Our particular focus on becoming more outward-facing and mission-focussed is as important as ever.

“Everyone has a role in the flourishing of the Church; we need to continue intentionally and consciously working together and developing a sense of unity, not only in our parishes but across our diocese – clergy and lay people together.”

Dr Avril Baigent, Director and Co-Founder of the School for Synodality, was the key speaker for the second day of the event. Highlighting the nature of leadership in a volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous world, she emphasised the vital role of the Church in bringing the “gift of hope”: “The Catholic Church is designed not to be broken, and to keep going,” she said. “We stand on a foundation of hope; we are the Easter people.”

Reflecting on the importance of synodality and a culture of collaboration, she added: “We need synodality even more in the modern era, one person can’t make decisions on their own, we need each other.”

As we continue to pray for the appointment of a new bishop, let us reflect on our roles in parish life, and the mission that each of us has to share the good news of the gospel. May we continue to work together within our parish families to create “communities of saints… [and] strong, lively and welcoming schools of discipleship... where all know the riches of the Faith and seek to share it with others.” (The Word Who is Life, 2024).

‍