Becoming Better Together
A special event will mark ten years of growing Christian unity in Cornwall in January.
Becoming Better Together will feature a day of celebration as Christians from across Cornwall come together to re-dedicated themselves to a Covenant first signed in 2013.
That day, a decade ago saw church leaders gather at St Petroc’s Church in Bodmin to sign a Declaration of Intent or Letter of Companionship, committing to work more closely together.
The event in January will again see leaders and others gathering at St Petroc’s Church in Bodmin. While people and situations have undoubtably changed in that time, the desire to continue the path of Christian unity set out in 2013 is still strong.
Kathy Pope, Churches Together in Cornwall co-ordinator and event planner, said: “When considering Becoming Better Together 2024 as an opportunity for re-dedication we wanted to both celebrate the past, and plan for the future.”
During the event, which runs from 10.30am to 3pm, there will be speakers, opportunities for sharing during facilitated listening groups, and the act of worship with the Covenant signing before those present enjoy tea, cake, and conversation to close the day.
Kathy said: “We are delighted The Revd Dr Ben Aldous, Principal Officer for Mission and Evangelism at Churches Together in England, will be the keynote speaker and the Revd Loraine Mellor, Chair of the Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Methodist District and Chair of Churches Together in Cornwall, will deliver the address during our act of worship. An exhibition will show the breadth of community social action while a pasty lunch and plenty of tea and coffee will provide opportunities for sharing and enjoying each other’s company.”
The Covenant consists of eight statements which recognise and give thanks for the unity already shared and for the rich diversity and heritage in Cornwall. Kathy added: “In the Covenant we also confess that which still divides us and promise to commit and re-dedicate ourselves to share our gifts, serving the people and land of Cornwall, growing in Christ, and therefore becoming better together. A core principle of this approach is that everyone Is invited to sign, equally and inclusively. This is more than an event, rather an ongoing process, with the intention to re-visit it each year during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.”
With inclusiveness at its core, the event on January 27 will be open to all Christians across Cornwall. Among those attending will be Bishop Hugh Nelson, acting diocesan bishop for the Diocese of Truro.
Bishop Hugh said: “‘Christians are always better when we pray, worship, and serve together. I am pleased that this important anniversary is being marked, and even more delighted to have the opportunity to re-commit to this shared journey into the future.”
It is hoped this event will be one to remember with memories shared and connections made, but most of all a new beginning as we grow together.
