We’re making some changes to our work over the next few years, and here’s a first peek and what’s in store (more details will be shared on the Trust’s website after Christmas):
WTIHIN the Trust’s existing remit (religious education, faith in further education, Christian learning and discipleship in the WM region), we are aiming to…
1. Focus more of the Trust’s energy and resources on supporting small, innovative grass-roots projects which if fruitful could then become a model for work or inspiration for work elsewhere. With this in mind from April 2024 ONE THIRD of available Trust funding will be ring-fenced for projects being developed and trialled by either an individual church, an individual college or school, a local charity, or a very localised partnership of some of the above (for example a local group of churches working together across a neighbourhood, or 2-3 schools or colleges in the same part of the region working together in a partnership project. Larger organisations or projects with a wider geographical focus will still be able to apply for other funding, but as a Trust we want to place a renewed emphasis on encouraging grass-roots innovation.
2. Undertake a particular strand of work focused on the development of understanding of/engagement with Christian faith in contemporary society. In 2025 there’ll be a series of global events marking the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed – a significant milestone in the statement of Christian belief. For the World Council of Churches, all of this will cohere around the question: ‘How do we live, pray and celebrate the faith together in times like these?’. For the Trust, this present opportunities to explore:
- In formational settings: What does Christian discipleship look like in the 21st Century, and how might this life of discipleship be nurtured and encouraged?
- In educational settings: How can we deepen learning about Christianity as a globally diverse, lived faith?
- In public settings: How can understanding and appreciation of Christianity be developed in such a way that contributes to the public good?
There is huge scope here for creative, innovative and experimental projects undertaken by churches, Christian organisations, schools and colleges.
The Trust itself will also be seeking to partner with others in collaborative initiatives which deepen understanding of contemporary Christian discipleship.
More detail will be published in the coming months – WATCH THIS SPACE!