Resourcing a Connexional Church for the digital age
Digital Transformation Programme receives green light
10 November 2025
The Methodist Church in Britain has announced it is launching a Digital Transformation Programme in January 2026 – a bold and forward-looking initiative that will support the Church in becoming more connected, responsive and equipped for mission and ministry in a digital age.
This programme represents a significant investment in the future of the Church, recognising the vital role digital tools and technologies play in enabling meaningful engagement, collaboration and outreach across our Connexion. It will be designed to resource a Connexional Church that is confident and capable in its use of digital, while remaining rooted in Methodist values and responsive to the needs of our communities.
To ensure the programme is shaped by the lived experiences and real needs of people across the Church, its early stages will include a Connexion-wide listening exercise. This will invite voices from every part of the Church – from local churches and circuits to districts and national bodies – to share their hopes, challenges and priorities for digital transformation. The insights gathered will inform the development of practical, purposeful solutions that support ministry, mission, and everyday Church life.
The programme has received approval from the Connexional Council and will be funded by the Connexional Priority Fund, reflecting its strategic importance for the Church’s future.
“This programme is a vital step in equipping the Methodist Church for the future. It reflects our commitment to being a Church that listens, adapts, and embraces digital as a means of deepening connection and enabling mission. I’m delighted that Ben will be leading this work with such clarity and care.”
Doug Godfrey-Swanney, The Connexional SecretaryTo lead this work, Ben Hollebon will take up a seconded role as Director of Digital and Transformation from January 2026. Ben has served as Director of Digital Engagement since 2022, overseeing the Church’s digital strategy and helping to grow its online presence. His leadership will help ensure the programme is both visionary and grounded in the realities of digital delivery.
“Digital transformation is not just about technology – it’s about people, purpose and how we live out Our Calling in a changing world. This programme is an opportunity to listen deeply, respond wisely and build something that truly serves the Connexion and its mission.”
Ben Hollebon, Director of Digital and TransformationThe Church’s Digital team will continue to deliver the Digital Engagement strategy, supporting our online platforms and communications while the transformation programme develops in parallel.
This is an exciting moment for the Methodist Church as we embrace digital not just as a tool, but as a key enabler of our mission and ministry. We look forward to sharing more as the programme unfolds and to working together across the Connexion to shape a Church that is ready for the opportunities and challenges of the digital age.
Digital Engagement Manager (2-year fixed term)
This is a key role within the Communications team, responsible for ensuring our digital content is timely, accessible and aligned with our mission and strategic priorities.