2006 Towards Team Ministry

2006 is a new year for St James’s and for the parishes in Dudley. Over the last three years the churches have been exploring how they might work more effectively together. And just prior to Christmas, representatives from the different parishes reported back to Bishop David on their decisions. Although there are technicalities to be sorted out (and often the devil is in the detail) it is likely that by the end of this year we shall have become part of a team ministry.
Now a change of name in itself can be purely cosmetic. But the creation of a team goes beyond corporate re-branding. Much that is already happening will of course continue. And so if a team is working well, many in the parishes will not sense the change – services will continue, for example, in each parish in the team. On the other hand, team working can lead to coordinating activities so that resources are used more effectively. All resources are God given, of course, and all are to be cherished and used wisely. Yet there is no resource more precious than human lives. And that means the time given by laity and clergy alike. There would be little point in a team ministry if it absorbed even more time discussing and replicating provision across the churches. It should create space for fresh opportunities.
Nor is a team ministry simply a clerical affair. The clergy, myself included, will be devoting time to a new pattern in our working relationships. That will include no doubt a joint rota of services to ensure that cover is adequately arranged. But it will have other implications as well. Elsewhere in the magazine this month there are details about Confirmation preparation which is taking place across the new team.
In Ghana it is said “No matter how sharp the knife is, it cannot cut itself.” Team working is just that essential to function at all in life. And many I know already contribute tirelessly to the team-playing that makes for our life together at St James’s – church cleaning, visiting, supporting, to name but three.
Meanwhile if you have concerns or questions about the new Team Ministry and how it will affect St James’s do please speak with me or the wardens. We are at the start of a significant year for us together. And it is my prayer that 2006 will be a year in which each of us can find joy.

Fr Andrew