We recognise that our two largest conurbations have huge missional opportunities and challenges but have had the lowest level of investment of any part of our diocese for so many years. This approach has led to a need for the wider diocesan community to significantly subsidise the ministry costs in these two areas.
It is our belief and prayer that significant, dedicated investment in these areas over the next 10 years, can lead to substantial growth in attendance, outreach and impact across our communities. As well as the clear missional imperative, this will have the additional benefit of reducing the level of subsidy the wider diocesan community needs to provide.
Supported by dedicated programme managers, the Bishop of Southampton will work closely with clergy and parishes across Southampton and Bournemouth to develop deanery-wide mission development plans to include social and civic impact, revitalisation projects, new worshipping communities and strengthening investment in existing mission and ministry. It will build upon the principles of the Benefice Development Programme and offer similar bespoke support whilst also ensuring that we make the most of the opportunities which exist for creative cooperation across parishes and deaneries.
It will draw upon a wide range of experience, learning and wisdom gained locally and nationally (including Bishop Rhiannon’s personal experience of leading the Inspiring Ipswich project), and will see to offer bespoke support, whilst also ensuring that we make the most of the opportunities which exist for creative cooperation across parishes and deaneries.