(1888PressRelease)
March 09, 2007 - "Central to our philosophy at the Enfys Acumen is the commitment to the belief that every single one of us has our own unique gifts and talents. We should be given the opportunity and indeed encouraged to use these for the benefit of others in our communities."
This philosophy is grounded in New Testament teaching, especially the Parable of the Talents and the Prayerful Community Action Programme aims to support churches to develop social projects in ways that will help fulfil the mission of the Church and enhance stewardship values.
"Throughout our communities we have church buildings that are increasingly becoming redundant as worship centres and the social hubs that they were fifty or more years ago. Although many might be in need of some TLC they remain structurally sound." Nigel’s passion is infectious,
"Jesus teaches us clearly that we should be effective stewards of the resources we are given and I think here, he is referring not just to our own particular talents, but the resources that have been endowed to us and the physical environment in which we live."
There have been moves in recent years to encourage collaborative ministries in church congregations. Such ministries can manifest themselves in many ways including the stewardship of resources and in community action.
Although undoubtedly every church group will have an abundance of skills and abilities in their membership, some churches may need support to develop the leadership and other abilities to fulfil this kind of ministry. The Prayerful Community Action Programme supports church people to identify and use their individual gifts and talents in the service of the Church and for the benefit of both today’s and future communities.
The Enfys Acumen is keen to support churches to develop ways of working and involving people that are relevant to the 21st Century. The Prayerful Community Action Programme includes tools like Open Space Technology which enable groups of twenty or more people to help clarify opinions and set priorities. Other techniques are used with smaller working groups, Nigel explained:
“We have developed a range of planning tools to support organisations like churches to clarify aims, objectives and outcomes for their projects and maximise opportunities to make successful grant applications or develop social enterprises, as appropriate.”
Whatever tool that is used, times for prayer and worship will always be included.
“By seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, we can be sure that the projects that develop will be God’s will. The Enfys Acumen can help churches use modern management and business methods to respond to stewardship and community needs.”
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