The District Policy Committee decided to utilise available funding to support a project in Barrow, focused on developing a Christian community through a shop called re:new.
This initiative aims to provide a community space, as well as a retail outlet for low-cost or free clothing, addressing the needs of economically disadvantaged people in the area. The Circuit will provide the space and staff, while the District will collaborate to foster a new worshiping community, aided by a Pioneer. The goal is to use re:new as a hub for conversation, prayer, and activities that build an inclusive and nurturing environment, eventually growing into a New Places for New People (NPNP) Christian community.
Re:new recently relocated to a more central and versatile location, allowing it to function as both a retail and community space. This new space will host groups centered around activities, interests, and faith-sharing, promoting dignity and honesty in its interactions with the public. The Pioneer will help develop these efforts, building on the success of re:new to create a space for engagement and faith exploration. In addition, re:new will continue to support its community by providing essential resources, such as low-cost or donated clothing.
The initiative will evolve in phases. In the first year, the focus is on hiring a Pioneer to deepen community engagement, encourage regular attendance, and foster volunteerism. Over the following years, the project will expand its reach, with co-created activities and emerging leaders from within the community. The Pioneer will dedicate most of their time to Barrow while also spending 20% of their efforts helping other district areas replicate the model.
Ultimately, the aim is to see the replication of re:new projects across Cumbria, with contextualized versions of community spaces in different areas. The Pioneer will also guide other initiatives, sharing knowledge and practices for building strong, inclusive communities, enabling people to notice where God is at work and how to start similar projects across the district.