As we begin the process towards the appointment of a new vicar, the PCC has commissioned a small group to put together the Parish Profile, an important document outlining the vision, characteristics, needs and aspirations of Christ Church at this time. To enable us to do this well we’re asking members of the Christ Church family and wider community to respond to four key questions:
- What do you value and appreciate about Christ Church Downend?
- What are the biggest challenges we face at Christ Church and what might be missing?
- What are the areas in which you hope to see Christ Church develop and thrive in the next 5 to 10 years?
- What gifts, characteristics, skills and abilities will our new vicar need if they are to lead us and help us achieve this?
There will be opportunities to do this individually via this Google Form link and through life groups and a number of focus groups outlined below. Please respond prayerfully by 31st July to enable us to work on the profile over the summer. If you would prefer to respond to the questions in written form, please send responses to the Parish Office marked ‘Profile Consultation’
Life groups – leaders to arrange times with their groups
Focus groups (with a facilitator):
- 9.15 Congregation – Sunday 25th July after the 9.15 Service – Church Centre
- Thursday congregation – Thursday 22nd July after the 9.30 Service – Christ Church
- Open groups – Tuesday 20th July 2pm and 7pm – Christ Church Monday 26th July 2pm and 7pm – Christ Church.
There is no need to book – just turn up willing to contribute to the conversation. People’s comments both written and spoken will help inform the team as they seek to construct a profile which accurately reflects the life and aspirations of the Parish. We would love as many people as possible to take part so that together we can discern where God is leading us and who he wants to bring to the role.
The Patrons (CPAS) and the Archdeacon have indicated that if all goes to plan we should be in a position to advertise the post in the late Autumn or early January, which would mean that if the right person is identified a new Vicar could be in post soon after Easter 2022.
We’re looking to arrange some times of prayer as we look towards a new appointment – more details to follow.
In Christ
Bryan Ashton, Anita Dobson, Jamie Paddon, Adam Parfitt, Paul Peterson and Eloise Phillips on behalf of the PCC