Lancashire Mission Area NPNPs
Across the Lancashire Mission Area, a new chapter in Methodist mission is beginning to unfold—one shaped by deep listening, bold vision, and a commitment to reach people where they are. Rooted in some of the most diverse and economically challenged communities in North West England, this work seeks to nurture new Christian communities that speak meaningfully into people’s everyday lives.
The vision has grown from careful discernment of local context. Within Lancashire, there are coastal towns and urban neighbourhoods facing significant economic hardship, alongside thriving student populations and strong links with Methodist schools. From this, three clear priorities have emerged: engaging with communities on the margins, connecting with families and children, and reaching students and young adults.
Rather than starting from scratch, the Mission Area is building on existing, fruitful initiatives. Two established New Places for New People approaches—Caleb Communities and The Neighbourhood Project—will be extended into Lancashire. These bring tested approaches to forming new Christian communities, developing local leaders, and enabling grassroots change.
At the heart of this work is a commitment to a “mixed ecology” of church: a recognition that traditional congregations and new expressions of church can grow side by side, each enriching the other. The approach is intentionally pioneering and adaptable, seeking to respond to the particular needs and cultures of each local community while nurturing discipleship and belonging.
As these new communities begin to emerge, there is a strong emphasis on identifying and supporting leaders from within the communities themselves—people of different ages and backgrounds who can shape worship, mission and outreach in authentic and contextually relevant ways. This investment in local leadership is key to long-term sustainability and transformation.
This NPNP approach is supported by a significant partnership of connexional and district funding, alongside flexible leadership structures and coaching support. This ensures that as new opportunities arise, resources can be directed where they are most needed, enabling innovation while maintaining accountability.
Ultimately, this is a story of hope and transformation. Through courage, collaboration and faith, the Lancashire Mission Area is seeking to see lives changed and communities renewed. As new Christian communities take root—among families, students and those on the margins—they offer a glimpse of a church that is present, responsive and alive in every part of society.