The Foundery's first meeting

The first meeting of all those in the London District who are starting outreach projects and New Places for New People (NPNP) took place last week at Hinde Street Methodist Church.

Using the name The Foundery, there were seven of us at this inaugural gathering. But we’re anticipating growth as more Methodists become inspired by the Holy Spirit to see what’s possible in their local communities.

We were able to share where we’re at with our respective projects and think together what we can proactively do to create an environment where innovation flourishes and new initiatives begin to take root.

We already have pioneer presbyters, deacons, lay workers and chaplains in the capital building relationships with those currently outside of church in a diverse range of contexts. Both NPNPs which have officially been launched this year, Faith in Recovery and SENsational, are slowly becoming established with new unaffiliated people joining them. The Space in Vauxhall, our District NPNP Project, will soon have a full-time Pioneer working alongside Revd Sue Shortman as interviews take place next week.

Our next Foundery meeting will be in October with pioneers from other denominations. Please look out for more details on the website or if you have an idea you’d like to talk through, my email is andrea@methodistlondon.org.uk.