Photos by Colin Loughead
Ballymoney Parish Centre hosted the fifth in the series of Rural Deanery meetings taking place across Connor Diocese as part of the Vision Strategy process.
Parishioners and members of the Select Vestry from Agherton; Ballintoy and Dunseverick; Ballymoney, Finvoy and Rasharkin; Ballyrashane and Kildollagh; Ballywillan; Billy and Derrykeighan; Coleraine and Dunluce were all invited to attend.
The Bishop of Connor, the Rt Rev Alan Abernethy, spoke about the background to the Vision Strategy and the reasons for it, in particular the need for churches to adapt to the changing culture and communities in which they minister.
The Archdeacon of Dalriada, the Ven Stephen Forde, presented a Powerpoint illustrating examples of Best Practice in the Diocese, and all parishes were given a copy of this.
Later everyone then split into parish groups, and each group discussed a series of set issues relating to changes in the context around their parish, signs of a widening gap between the church and the community and their fears and hopes about engaging with the community. They were also asked to think about possible next steps for their parish.
These discussions will continue within parishes as the strategy progresses.
Following a break for refreshments, Bishop Alan addressed any questions and looked towards the next stage in the strategy before the meeting closed with a short act of worship.
The next Vision Strategy Rural Deanery meeting takes place in Eglantine Parish Hall on Thursday June 7 beginning at 7.30pm and is for the Rural Deanery of Lisburn.
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