2014: Mission or Mystery?

2014 Conference Masthead

Mission or Mystery

The 2013 survey of lay chairs painted a picture of dynamic and productive Deaneries most of which take a lead in mission locally and provide a valuable source of support to their parishes. They are though frustrated that, through lack of recognition of the potential, they can't do more.

However, Deaneries can still be a mystery to people. But the survey shows how active many actually are, and that they are doing good, positive work.

Deaneries must de-mystified, and the potential unlocked in the interests of achieving the Church's mission.

The conference heard from people who are doing and have done this, and discussed with them and others how Deaneries can contribute to the mission and ministry of the church of the future.

What goes on in Deaneries is a mystery to some; to others Deaneries are uniquely positioned to play a key role in mission initiatives and driving forward the growth of the Church.

  • How can Deaneries facilitate strategic development?
  • What does a Mission Shaped Deanery look like?
  • How can Deaneries help bridge the gap between the Church and young adults?

For more material from the conference, see Conference News.

The Venue: The Hayes Conference Centre

The Hayes is situated in the Amber Valley in the heart of picturesque Derbyshire just 5 miles from Junction 28 of the M1. The Hayes offers a high standard of modern en suite accommodation and state of the art conference facilities.

Speakers:

Rev Leslie Griffths 3

Revd the Lord Leslie Griffiths

Superintendent Minister
Wesley's Chapel, London

Leslie Griffiths is a Methodist minister, life peer in the House of Lords and former President of the Methodist Conference.
Rt Rev John Packer

The Rt Rev John Packer

Rt Revd John Packer, former Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, stepped in to set the scene for the rest of the conference.

David Jennings (1)

David Jennings

Senior Strategy Officer, Church Commissioners & Archbishops' Council

David brings to the role 25 years' experience of working in the public and not-for-profit sectors. His brief is to support strategy development in the Church covering growth and resource planning.
Christine Wilson

Ven Christine Wilson

Archdeacon of Chesterfield

Christine has extensive experience of youth leadership; community development and overseas partnerships. In her role as archdeacon she shares in the senior leadership of the Diocese of Derby and is currently undertaking a significant piece of work on developing the deaneries.
Penny photo 2 enhanced 01 (2)

Penny Stradling

Co-Chair Young Adult Round Table Conferences.

Penny works for the CMS helping people find their vocation in mission. She co-chairs the fresh expressions work with young adults. Currently completing an MA in pioneer ministry Penny co-leads a 20/30s community group in Oxford.
Conference Reviewe
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Rt Revd Peter Price

Former Bishop of Bath and Wells

Peter Price is renowned for his energy and his ideas. His gifts as a brilliant teacher and communicator have been widely recognised as is his commitment to reconciliation, justice and peace.