Church leaders celebrated their joint mission by renewing a commitment to unity first made more than 30 years ago.
The leaders of the seven denominations which make up Churches Together in Norfolk and Waveney – Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, Methodist, Quaker, Salvation Army and United Reformed – sealed the new declaration of unity with a service of thanksgiving and commitment at Norwich Cathedral in November.
Their priorities include praying and proclaiming the gospel, helping the lost and vulnerable and serving the disadvantaged, sharing friendship and understanding, and speaking with one voice whenever possible.
The new Church Leaders Declaration of Commitment for Christian Unity acknowledges with thankfulness their common faith and common call to serve in God’s mission, the diversity of their traditions and the different gifts each brings.
They invite Christians across Norfolk and Waveney to support them in their ‘partnership of trust and cooperation’ as they serve and witness together.
We asked leaders of the churches: What are you most looking forward to about the year ahead with Churches Together in Norfolk and Waveney?
The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher said: “I am looking forward to our continued pilgrimage of trust, often celebrating local ecumenical initiatives supporting our communities, whilst knowing that the walls of our divisions do not reach as high as heaven.”
The Roman Catholic Bishop of East Anglia, the Rt Revd Peter Collins said: “In close collaboration with all our brothers and sisters within Churches Together in Norfolk and Waveney I look forward to implementing our New Beginnings declaration with prayerful confidence and enthusiasm.”
Revd David Mayne, regional minister team leader for the Eastern Baptist Association, said: “It is my heartfelt prayer that we will continue to see a growing spirit of ecumenism across the county, with sisters and brothers from all types of church working together to share God’s love and show God’s mercy with our communities. I’m looking forward to seeing all the creative and interesting ways churches are making this hope a reality.”
Rev Lythan Nevard, moderator for the Eastern Synod of the United Reformed Church, said: “Growing the relationships between church leaders and encouraging churches to work together to share Christian faith in the communities of Norfolk and Waveney.”
Liz Hoffbauer, of the Society of Friends, or Quakers, said: “I am really looking forward to the joint pilgrimage to Rome, which will be a chance to have deeper discussions with the church leaders, during which we can explore ways to put our missions into practice.”
Major Howard Russell, east of England divisional commander for the Salvation Army, said: “In a world and country often marked by divisions, our commitment to unity is more important than ever. Together, we can be a light in our community, bridging gaps, fostering understanding, and demonstrating the power of united faith and practical action in supporting those around us.”
