Guiding Principles
Our buildings are well-loved and important parts of both our church and local communities. As we think about how we can grow and sustain our church buildings to enable and support mission, we recognise the challenges we face in adapting for the 21st century, while maintaining and conserving them for future generations.
1. We value a transparent and clear assessment of each church
As part of the FfM transition, the local Right Buildings Change Team (made up of local lay and clergy, supported by a professional Surveyor), will engage with each church to assess the building fabric and the community use of each building.This is a 14-point assessment that covers: spiritual and social support, environmental impact and economic sustainability. The result of this assessment and subsequent workshops will be a Right Buildings Proposal that will then be consulted on by the Navigation team and each current PCC. The aim is to achieve an agreed plan, ratified by Deanery synod.
2. We prioritise investing in buildings so that they are missional and developing new income streams
New investment and development will be prioritised for local churches in the Larger Parish based on the Right Buildings Plan and prioritised project analysis. New capital investment will also require local church fundraising to contribute to capital building projects. We will seek also to maximise income from our assets by developing our community partnerships.
3. We collaborate and coordinate on local church maintenance challenges
We streamline processes and provide resources to support the efficient maintenance of church buildings. Day-to-day management and maintenance will remain with the local church, while statutory compliance, larger maintenance challenges, and shared service purchasing will be coordinated across the Larger Parish through a new Support Services Team.
4. We commit to the Church of England’s formal consultation processes regarding the closure of any church building
Following the Right Buildings Proposal, all applicable National Church procedures will be followed regarding any shared decision to close a building. A consecrated church can only be legally closed for regular public worship by a pastoral church buildings scheme made by the Church Commissioners. These processes are extensive and involve formal consultation of all interested parties (including PCCs) and the public.
FAQs
In March 2024, local church PCCs who decided to engage in the Fit for Mission journey submitted key questions to be answered. Below you will find a summary of the questions and answers. Should you like to explore additional information you may access the FFM FAQ with over 200 responses or send an email to info@hopeparishliverpool.org.
Q: Can the new PCC simply choose to close one of its buildings?
A: No. The closure of any place of worship is a consultative process between the church members, their PCC, the Deanery and authorised representatives of the Diocesan Bishop.
Q: Can you guarantee my church building will not close?
A: No, but nobody can guarantee that now. The mission and ministry of the church, its clergy and its building are significantly funded by, and linked to the health of, the church community. Staying outside of FfM does not mean that your church building is protected either.
Q: How can we be confident of future proofing our buildings?
A: As mentioned above there are no guarantees. But having well-maintained, heavily used and financially viable buildings is generally the most effective way. Clearly the commitment to carbon net zero by 2030 will also become a more significant factor.