Oneof the Kingdom People priorities is Committedto making our buildings fit for purpose as a spiritual and community resource. Toomany churches are locked for all but a couple of hours a week when they couldbe a vital spiritual and community resource.
Weas a diocese have a rich resource of buildings, both with Churches and hallsand the like. One of the features of church life is that it is more varied nowthan its ever been, with the flourishing of new churches and also minorityethnic churches. This provides us with an opportunity and sharing ourbuildings with other churches can be much easier than is often realised. Whilethere is the formal sharing of church buildings much more flexible and temporaryarrangements can also be made with other churches. This is particularly true ofchurch halls that can provide a flexible space for a limited time. As well aspractical benefits of increased use and income, there can be the greaterecumenical benefit of sharing in another Christian tradition, and at bestworshipping and praying together.
ChurchesTogether in England provides more information on formal and informalarrangements. Link here:
Tofind out more of whats possible with churches and halls, or if another churchhas approached you already, David Ryan, the Diocesan Ecumenical Officer canalways be contacted for advice and guidance: david.ryan@cofe-worcester.org.uk or 07588488773.
