Growing community

I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.  

Matthew 25: 35-36

Since the global Covid-19 pandemic, refugee, and fuel crises, we’re more acutely aware than ever before of our need for strong, caring partnerships within and beyond our communities.

Many churches have been right at the heart of building these relationships, recognising that by working together for the common good, there are mutual benefits. 

Growing community helps us connect with new contacts, share resources and amplify our efforts to transform lives for the better.

Churches that build community outside their four walls are churches and communities that thrive and survive.

The Diocese of Guildford is an Associate member of the Together network, founded by the Church Urban Fund, here you will find several useful tools when looking at where and how to start your Community engagement. See their Together Network web pages.

The Parish Needs Process can help your church identify, establish and grow the partnerships that will help you work towards your mission goals - to be a Transforming Church Transforming Lives, locally, nationally, and globally.

Explore the sections below for information, resources, guidance, inspiration and practical ideas.