INTRODUCTION AND BASIC PRINCIPLES

As a Circuit we affirm the fourfold emphasis of “Our Calling” as agreed by the Methodist Conference to respond to the gospel of God’s love in Christ and to live out its discipleship in worship and mission.

The Circuit also affirms the “Priorities for the Methodist Church” agreed by the Methodist Conference to proclaim and affirm its conviction of God’s love in Christ, for us and for all the world; and renew confidence in God’s presence and action in the world and in the Church.

OUR STYLE OF WORKING

We commit ourselves to work in partnership with other churches wherever it is possible and wherever this enables us to share in God's Mission more effectively. Particularly we note the challenges and opportunities that are presented in the light of the Anglican-Methodist covenant.

We will be ready to work in partnership with statutory agencies and all people of goodwill in seeking the common good of our local communities.

OUR PRIORITIES

MEMBERSHIP  We acknowledge that Christian discipleship which celebrates faith is of primary importance. It is our aim to lead people to such discipleship. We will also encourage people to take the important extra step of becoming church members.

YOUNG PEOPLE  The love and the call of Christ are for people of all ages. It is our aim to ensure that children and young people associated with our churches have the opportunity to know Christ’s love and to hear his call.

FRESH EXPRESSIONS The love of God is “eternal and yet ever new”. It is our aim to express the Gospel through worship, word and action in fresh ways that will speak to the needs and culture of people around us.

RESOURCES The Circuit has a wide variety of resources. It is our aim to use them as effectively as possible in implementing the Circuit Policy.

ENVIRONMENT Our churches will aim to be sensitive to environmental issues and to be good stewards of the natural resources of the world.

WORLD CHURCH We rejoice in being part of the worldwide Church of Christ through which we are both enriched and challenged. It is our aim to make sure that the members and friends of our churches are inspired and challenged through being part of the worldwide “Body of Christ”.