Chris Dobson reports from Swindon Churches Together which is challenging perceptions of what it means to work ecumenically.
When was the last time you went to a Churches Together meeting and came away thinking this is an exciting place to be? SCT is that place. As Anna Potts from Christian Aid comments, “There is so much good stuff going on in Swindon!” .
SCT is working increasingly closely with the Borough Council following publication of Audit of Church activities within the community in 2010/11. Simon Jones from the Council spoke movingly about the work of Restorative Justice and his desire to work closely with churches and faith communities. Check out the You Tube video about the effectiveness of Restorative Justice – ‘The Woolf Within.’
Responding to the Audit SCT and ISR are offering a series of three one day seminars equipping Churches for effective Community Engagement in the Autumn of 2012. For more information on Community Engagement seminars contact Simon Topping at ISR.
Dan Jones and Chris Priddy then commended the growing work of the in:School project. Backed by SU and Swindon YFC the project is equipping local churches to serve their local schools, helping them develop relationships and enabling volunteers to help children explore the Christian faith.
SCT voted to raise at least £5,000 in 2012 to support a Christian Aid Project in Sao Paulo. Every pound raised will be match funded by the European Union on a ratio of three to one. Bishop of Swindon says this is a no-brainer!
Barbara Aftelak reported on the success of Flame FM. Throughout the month of June Flame FM broadcast a full schedule of programmes throughout the month of May showcasing the life and work of churches and Christians in Swindon. With a mix of music, chat, analysis, live events and interviews there was a real buzz in the town and plans are being mooted to repeat it in 2014.
Chris Priddy reported back on the progress at Impact, a Soul Survivor Style creative youth event run by volunteers from nine different churches across Swindon. Impact regularly attracts 80 or so youngsters from 25 different churches. Thank you to SCT for a grant of £1,000 which has enabled it to continue running for the last 18 months. This last year they have had a year based on the theme of Passion. In 2012-13 Impact will enter its fifth year and is looking to extend its reach to fulfil its vision of enabling young people to worship, grow and return to their churches energised.
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