Do you have ideas for mission in your community? Would you like to explore how your community can flourish in God’s love? If so, why not come and be part of the Newbigin Pioneering Hub to see if your hopes can be realised.
The Newbigin Hub, hosted by Seedbeds at Lodge Road in Birmingham, is a joint venture between The United Reformed Church (URC) and the Congregational Federation and Church Mission Society which offers training in pioneer ministry.
Soobie Whitfield attended the Hub as part of the 2022-2023 cohort and obtained a Certificate in Pioneering Mission.
Soobie explains their experience:~
“Before commencing the pioneer course I was working in community arts, supply teaching and volunteering in my local community.
“I live in Birmingham, in a community house on the Firs and Bromford Estate, a welcoming but forgotten outer city estate. The community house is owned by Hodge Hill Church, where I now worship.
“When asked if I would like to attend the new CMS Pioneer course in Birmingham, I was apprehensive. I didn’t see myself as a pioneer.
“But over the next twelve months, my anxiety melted away as I was spiritually stimulated and refreshed by the course leaders and the diverse experience of my fellow pioneer trainees.
“Being already involved in my local community helped establish relationships which we are building on as we move forward with pioneering activities. For example, the community house has a garden, but it was dominated by an old, derelict garage. Alongside local community groups, I planned a project called “Green Room” – an outdoor space where neighbours can enjoy a bit of greenery, socialise, play, be creative, sit and share stories or just take time out.
“The garage has now gone, a new fence and gate have been built, and a sensory garden is planned. I continue to be actively involved in the local community here and have started to redevelop a local expression of church, FAB (Firs and Bromford) church with lifelong local resident and fellow pioneer Clare Maclean. FAB church is a friendly, inclusive group of neighbours living on the Firs and Bromford Estate who regularly meet together on the first Sunday of every month to share food and explore spirituality, biblical and faith stories in creative ways.
“We recently spent an afternoon pruning and weeding the overgrown planters and engaging in conversation with neighbours.
“I noticed that through local conversations and workshops, creation and creativity were having a positive impact on people’s mental health. A new mental health project on the estate is now keen to link in with us. Hopefully by next spring we will be ready to open the garden and welcome our neighbours in to find refreshment, inspiration, and spiritual nourishment.
“I’m really glad I did the course, the support I received was amazing and I would encourage others thinking about gaining the certification in pioneering ministry to just go for it.”
Applications for the Certificate in Pioneering Mission are now open. You also have the option to apply for URC Assembly Accreditation for Lay Pioneers. Apply for the 2024-25 programme by 6 September. For more information please email Ministries, or learn more about Seedbeds.