Guiding Principles
A foundational tenet within the new Larger Parish is the flourishing of diverse theological, ecclesiological (nature and structure of the church), liturgical, and missional practices within the framework of the Church of England’s doctrine. The new Larger Parish, under a single PCC, is committed to ensure that all positions of conscience and theological diversity (within the framework of the Church of England’s doctrine) are respected.
1. We commit to a Shared Mission
We commit to our shared mission to: introduce people to Jesus, deepen discipleship, develop leaders and work for justice.
2. We endorse the commitment of Bishops and Archdeacons to protect and promote differences in theology and how we express these as the Body of Christ in worship and in our missional practice
We endorse the clear and unambiguous commitment by the Bishops and Archdeacons to protect and promote unity in our diversity, within the framework of the Church of England’s doctrine, for each local church within the new Larger Parish. You can read the statement below:
The Church of England in the Diocese of Liverpool is a place of rich theological and ecclesiological diversity. This diversity is reflected in the doctrine and ecclesial breadth of the Church of England as well as in local church tradition, practice and teaching; the individual views and consciences of lay and ordained people, and – in some cases – formal resolutions on the part of PCCs. As Bishop and Archdeacons, we commit ourselves to supporting people of all traditions within the Diocese of Liverpool. We commit to upholding all positions of theological and ecclesiological integrity consistent with the doctrine, teaching and practice of the Church of England. We commit to maintaining the unity in diversity that has characterised our diocese over generations. We will seek to ensure that Fit for Mission will be and will remain a shining example of that flourishing of all traditions reflecting the diversity of the Church of England and upholding the consciences of all God’s people.
3. We confirm a clear and unambiguous requirement of the Team Rector to protect and promote theological diversity and missional integrity across the New Larger Parish. This includes:
- A commitment to appointing team clergy in keeping with the traditions of the local churches for whom they are responsible.
- A commitment to ensuring that all clergy and senior lay leaders are given appropriate support and accountability by the Rector so that their ministry can flourish in whatever tradition it is expressed.
4. We pledge a clear and unambiguous commitment of the new Larger Parish and the PCC to:
- Diversity and respect for all traditions, within the Church of England.
- The individual conscience of each member of the clergy and lay leadership.
- The confirmation on matters of leading and teaching at public worship, and appointment of clergy and lay leaders to Local Leadership Teams will be respectful of the traditions of the local church.
- Recognise the differing positions of local churches when making resolutions as required by General Synod.
5. We provide a clear and confidential protocol for concerns
We commit to provide a clear and confidential protocol for people to raise concerns to be addressed if:
- Individual clergy and lay leaders are concerned that their integrity is being disrespected or undermined.
- Local Leadership Team members feel that the integrity of their local church is being threatened or undermined.
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: What would happen if we were part of a new Parish where people, particularly clergy, hold different views on some aspects of theology e.g. sexuality? Would policy be forced on churches and clergy?
A: There is a clear commitment within Fit for Mission and the Diocese to maintain, and indeed enhance, the breath and integrity of the Church of England. There will continue to be a range of positions and interpretations of scripture and how it applies to our current context
and different theological and ecclesiological points of view. The larger parish will not be monochrome where everyone has to do, say and think exactly the same thing. It will be rich and diverse with people able to hold different views with generosity and integrity.
This is one reason why the larger parish has a named priest for each church, so that there is continuity of tradition. Bishops and Archdeacons are leading us to maintain diversity in the CofE so that everyone in our communities can find a place of belonging.
One of the on-going roles of the Archdeacon will be to ensure that the traditions and expressed wishes of each church will be maintained.
Q: How are different traditions going to be managed?
A: All traditions will be encouraged to continue under the oversight of their named priest; all will be encouraged to grow and multiply through regular reviews and mission planning. This commitment to all traditions flourishing – not simply being maintained but absolutely flourishing – will be a key PCC and leadership responsibility.
Q: What will happen if a church has serious/ fundamental doctrinal or scriptural differences with possible future controversial changes e.g. same sex marriage? Will a church be able to ‘opt out’ if there are serious differences or will they be forced to accept the majority decision?
A: In terms of theological differences between churches in a larger parish, see the first question in this section. The larger parish will be looking to offer a wide range of opportunities for worship and belonging to Christian Community across its geography. The only limits to that will be that each needs to be healthy and viable.
In terms of possible future changes, all the churches of a deanery, whether within a FfM larger parish or not, will need to work through the implications of being part of the Church of England at any point in time. Closer relationships and better communication because of those relationships are likely to enable good decision-making on the ground and helpful local solutions.