Focal Ministry seeks to sustain smaller churches, within a wider benefice in a time of change. Instead of stretching clergy ever thinner, this model appoints local leaders - ordained or lay – to be a “face of the church” in their community under the oversight of their incumbent.
These focal ministers provide continuity and act as the local presence of the church under the oversight of an incumbent. They then have a range of specific roles suited to their own gifts and the needs of the parish, in areas such as pastoral care, worship, mission and evangelism, and others. It’s collaborative, rooted in prayer and sacrament, and proven to work. Research shows churches with focal ministers often grow, even modestly, where decline was expected.
In Chichester, we hope that this approach will support around 30 churches, helping them in their mission and ministry to the local area. The programme also provides training for Incumbents in local mission and working in a more sustainable, collegial way.
Focal Ministry empowers local leadership, strengthens community ties, and ensures that every parish remains a place of encounter with Christ. It’s about sustainability without sacrificing mission - a practical, hopeful way forward for rural and smaller congregations.
Case Studies
Case studies will be added here in due course
How can I engage with this stream?
If you are an incumbent of a multi-church benefice and would like to find out more about whether focal ministry may be helpful in your benefice, please contact Fr Felix at Felix.Smith@Chichester.Anglican.org.