Exciting news for Swadlincote Minster

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At the Minster meeting held on 22 July, we were joined by Rev’d Canon Matt Barnes, Head of Mission and Ministry in the diocese.

The Diocese has identified Swadlincote as a strategic area within the Diocese which could greatly benefit from an input of resources. This aligns very closely to our Minster vision to Transform Lives, Grow Church and Build Community.

The Diocese has the opportunity to apply for a large grant from central Church of England funds. Matt Barnes talked to us about what and how those funds could be used. In addition, he shared a draft plan of what that might mean for us here in the Swadlincote area, and how Swadlincote Minster could be part of this funding bid. (Please access document by clicking here)

What he had to say is potentially game-changing for us, with a great deal to consider and pray about.

Understandably, a final decision about any plan or funding bid would have to be made by the 4 PCCs, but it was felt that it is necessary to bring this to our church congregations to see if the plans are possible, adaptable and indeed right for Swadlincote Minster.

There is a time frame for this which has been set by the national funding body, not the diocese or our churches.

Because of the time limits in place (see document linked above for the time frame), focus meetings are planned to which everyone is invited, to have the opportunity find out more and ask any questions. You can attend any of the meetings and indeed, more than one if you wish. If you have any questions prior to the meetings, please let Patrick have them before Sunday 16thAugust. A bank of various resources has been compiled for all to access here.

The dates and times are:

  • Monday 17th August, 2:00-3:00pm at St. John’s, Newhall
  • Monday 17th August, 7:00-8:00pm at St Peter’s Church Hall, Hartshorne
  • Friday 11th September, 2:00-3:00pm at Emmanuel, Swadlincote
  • Friday 11th September, 7:00-8:00pm at Gresley Church Community Centre, Church Gresley

Please note that these meetings are set for 1 hour but may go longer if there are many questions raised at the meeting that haven’t been sent in advance. We will make sure the meetings don’t extend beyond 1.5 hours.

If you are unable to attend, but have questions, please speak to or email them to Patrick Douglas. (patrickdouglas62@gmail.com)

Swadlincote Minster Team.