MAP - what next?
MAP isn't going to be "here today and gone tomorrow" - the aim is for it to become a way of life for parish and diocesan planning and action.
Here are some suggestions about using your MAP
General principles to follow are:
* Get cracking…
* Once you've written it, don't frame it - use it!
* Use it to help you plan and take small steps.
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Celebrate what you achieve and learn from your successes.
* Encourage one another.
Make reviewing MAP progress a regular feature of your PCC meetings. Review your progress regularly. Not everything will work, but at least you will have had a go. As a PCC, keep an eye on the big picture.
Consider forming a MAP coordinating group
Some parishes are forming MAP coordinating teams to coordinate MAP implementation. Their purpose is to involve and encourage as many people as possible. More advice is available from Caroline Pascoe - ring 01446 701814 or 01656 868861, or .
Report on MAP progress annually
The Archdeacons' Articles of Enquiry from now on will ask you to report on your progress on your MAP - and what you are planning. You could use your MAP to help you prepare and present your Annual Report - and include forward plans. Some parishes find their Annual Vestry meeting a great opportunity for a celebration of progress.
Learn from each other; pray for each other
Read about what other parishes are doing - a booklet of excerpts from many parish MAPs was printed in time for the Diocesan Conference. Order a copy for each PCC member. Make copies more widely available to encourage others. The booklets are available free from the diocesan office - ring 01656 868868.
If an idea captures your imagination you could ring that parish and find out more about it. Pray for the work that other parishes are doing.
Hold a deanery conference to share your plans
Look for common themes. You might find that there are some things you could do better together. Could you share some training? Encourage each other and pray for each other.
Don't be afraid to adapt your MAP in the light of experience
A MAP is a working document. Expect it to develop with experience and time. Use the support, advice and training available.
The officers and advisers of the Diocesan Council for Mission and Ministry are there to offer support and advice. There are also courses that can be arranged and delivered locally. And there is the programme of Travelling School events open to clergy and parishioners at venues across the Diocese. We welcome suggestions of topics for inclusion in the Travelling School - ring 01446 701814.