Caleb pays particular attention to encouraging and supporting new faith communities on the margins of society. It is our conviction that there is a clear and obvious need to start many new faith communities within our Methodist family. Our denomination has declined significantly in recent years and many local churches, whilst continuing to be faithful, have become small in number, elderly and tired. Caleb creates the possibility for ‘new wine’ to flow and have the potential to reach people who have not felt able to access more traditional forms of church community. In contemporary society where people experience life in a multiplicity of cultures, any regional church planting strategy must take into consideration the need to discover ways of connecting with people in several different locations through a wide spectrum of activities.
In 2021 a Caleb ‘initial ideas’ document was sent around the district to supers, ministers, local churches and key individuals. This enabled the Caleb team to get an early indication of where the vision and energy for new communities lie within the district, where they are geographically located and what types of projects they might be. There is a six week, initial training course for anyone who is interested in learning more about starting new faith communities. This takes the form of a ‘multiply’ learning community and leans heavily on the ‘Godsend’ material. Developing an active learning community of Caleb pioneers across the district is a key part of this vision. Applications to become a Caleb Community are received by the Strategy/Steering Team. Projects will be accepted based upon clear criteria and understanding. These will include: that the project is a new ministry, that there is a commitment to ongoing discipleship, and that the leadership team members are all part of the Caleb learning community.
Successful applicant projects are eligible to receive ‘seed funding’ from Caleb in order to help get their project started. The money will need to be match funded from the local churches / circuits where finances are available. The exact amount of seed money that each successful applicant project will be able to access will be carefully assessed according to need. When projects from the margins of society, with limited financial resources apply to join Caleb, financial support will be offered from within the budget.
Alongside the seed money being made available to all successful Caleb communities, it is our intention to increase the Caleb staff team, from one at present, to five/six in the coming years. Our district is made up of 12 circuits. Our vision is that a good portion of the money available to us will be used to employ four part time ‘Caleb Community Coaches’, each with the responsibility for encouraging, supporting and coaching new communities and their leaders across three circuits. These regional coaches will be directed and supported by the Church Planting Officer and will form a Caleb leaders’ hub.
The Affirm community and The Bastion project are two good examples of new faith communities within the M&S district. Both these new ministries, working in very different contexts, are designed to reach new people with the gospel and grow communities where Christian discipleship is possible.
Affirm is an Inclusive Christian Community seeking to create a sacred, safe, welcoming space for all people to come together and worship God. We seek to model diversity in who we are, how we meet and how we express our faith as we journey together. Our gatherings often involve cake, coffee and a reminder that we are all known and loved by God.
Bastion describes itself as: ‘a Christian Community in the North-West with a love of gaming. We want to show people that church isn’t just pews and hymnbooks. Alongside our gaming sessions we offer Bible studies and spiritual support in a non-traditional way. We want to support those who feel unable to reach out for help in the usual ways. We seek to be God’s voice and love in the vibrant and growing gaming community. Our dedicated chaplain is available to talk to anyone who needs support.’
Communities which have received Caleb/NPNP funding:
Bitesize Church has recently launched, featuring tasty brunches as well as plenty of food for thought! Read more about the initiative, taking place on the fringes of Wilmslow on Colshaw Farm, here.
Your Space is a digital community, providing a safe environment for people to explore faith. The group is passionate about improving wellbeing and tackling loneliness. You can find out more on their Facebook or Instagram pages.