St Frideswide’s is on a journey. We are attempting to ‘venture upstream’ and think deeply and prayerfully about how we can make a meaningful difference in the world. Churches are meeting practical needs in our communities in lots of ways. This kind of social action is crucial as we respond to the command to love our neighbours and care for those in need. But it is not enough. We need to venture upstream to tackle the reasons people find themselves in such a place of need.
“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.”
How can we turn this discontent into action which brings meaningful change?
Community Organising offers a framework for listening, taking action, negotiating with those in power and holding decision-makers to account. It provides a way of playing an active role in our democratic processes which goes beyond casting a vote and is a means by which we can express our Christian commitments to the equality, dignity and worth of every person. You can find out more by visiting the website of CitizensUK.
It is not OK that so many people are not OK.
It is serious and meaningful work, but it is also rewarding and fun!
St Frideswide’s has recently been designated a Resourcing Hub in the Diocese of Oxford for Community Organising and Church Growth.
We are partnering with Citizens UK to explore how a commitment to the methodology of Community Organising can help strengthen our congregation and grow our church in number and reputation - not for our sake but for the glory of God.
Nudrat Hopper, our Congregational Development and Community Organiser has been in post since the end of February 2022, and she is already stimulating much reflection about how we integrate our Christian faith with a call to action for social justice and the common good. This is a pioneering role and there is lots to learn!
Our vision is to see our church and community flourish in mind, body and spirit, and to serve the purposes of God and the common good in our locality. And while it’s important to have a clear view of where you’re heading, it’s the journeying that brings challenges, opportunities and encounters with all sorts of people along the way. It’s the journeying that affords us the chance to change and grow – and we look forward to the upstream adventure ahead of us.
Please get in touch with any questions, and pray for us if you feel able:
