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Database for fresh expressions
Download the questionnaire: FXC database questionnaire
(The British Isles Anglican fresh expressions database questionnaire)
Why are we doing this?
Since the late 1990s there has been a significant increase in the variety and number of fresh expressions across the country, pioneered by those who see the need for churches to reach those traditionally absent from the churches. However the wider church has struggled to keep pace with this and record it adequately.
Our aim in keeping a record of these pioneering communities and initiatives, however 'successful' they are, is to gather a depth and wealth of information that can, over time, be used to make clearer what is happening. We intend to continue doing this (covering enough Dioceses to be representative) to build up a strong and compelling case about the contribution from fresh expressions movement nationally. This will enable us to show what fresh expressions of church bring to the mixed economy in the Anglican Church, and how they are one vital part of our life and our future.
Hang on - why only the Anglican Church?
Due to the sheer volume of work this will entail we have chosen to keep it as Anglican fresh expressions in the British Isles. There is also the problem of designing a questionnaire that can usefully hold structural comparisons between the different denominations. We have created an in depth questionnaire with help included to guide you through the questions if you need it. We believe fresh expressions are worth taking seriously, so the questionnaire is detailed, but hopefully not too demanding!
Any questions?
If you are leading an Anglican fresh expression in the British Isles and would like to talk to us or take part in this with us, please download the PDF from the link above. You can either complete the questionnaire on your fresh expression and return it to us or just ring us - we would be very happy to talk to you about your fresh expression of church. If you aren't sure if you have a fresh expression of Church, try this:
A fresh expression is any venture that works mainly with non-churchgoers and aims to become church. A fresh expression will be:
- Missional - it works mainly with non-churchgoers
- Contextual - it seeks to fit the context
- Formational - it aims to form disciples
- Ecclesial - it intends to become church
If you're still not sure, please give us a ring.
Our address to return the questionnaire to:
Laurence Keith
The Sheffield Centre
Wilson Carlile Centre
50 Cavendish Street
Sheffield
S3 7RZ
Tel: 0114 252 1646
e-mail: ask@sheffieldcentre.org.uk
