Let’s look at it a different way

An Introduction to Mission

A short six week course, Mission Shaped Intro, was held in St Margaret's Blackwood in September/October. The aim was for parishioners to discuss ways for our churches to move forward in mission. Representatives from Cefn Fforest, Blackwood, Tredegar, Oakdale, Abercarn and Cwmcarn attended.

Each week took on a different format but there was always time for discussions at the end. A video of Cafe-Church was shown one week which showed a different form of worship and took place mid-week. Another week various prayer stations were set up around the hall, including a station for quiet prayer, an origami activity and another activity using dough. Personally I enjoyed this session the most as it was interesting and thought provoking.

At the end of the six weeks everyone was becoming comfortable in each other’s company and interested in listening to each other’s personal experiences as well as to some of the changes that had been made in their own churches. Each meeting ended with a hymn or a prayer and then tea, coffee and some delicious home-made cake.

It was good to meet with other parishioners from around the Deanery. We are all at different stages of development for worship but coming on the course certainly gave us all something to think about. If changes are taking place in your church, however big or small, if they are done in a worshipful way I'm sure God will guide us.

Another course will be held in the New Year. It could be just the thing your church needs to help you look at ways to move forward.

Jan Berry, St Thomas', Cefn Fforest