A Good 'START'
You never know where an introduction to Christianity will lead, and that is just as true for a Bishop as anyone else.
In the early Summer this year, despite the restrictions of the pandemic, Bishop Karen, led a six-week course on Zoom to introduce people to Christianity and allow them to explore their faith, and three of those who joined in on the course have just been confirmed.
The START Course was publicised across Dorset for anyone who wanted to join in to learn more about the Christian Faith.
It was led by Bishop Karen, who was joined by the Revd Louise Ellis, our Diocesan Vocations co-ordinator, along with lay minister Eve Wallace-Hadrill and her husband, The Revd Lyndon Webb, who led small break-out groups.
Around 20 curious participants from Beaminster to West Parley, Marnhull to Corfe Castle and places in between attended; for three of them, the exploration has led to confirmation.
Two-course members were confirmed recently in Wareham and Sharon joined ten candidates who were confirmed in the Cathedral on Saturday by Bishop Karen and Bishop Andrew.
Bishop Karen said:
"When I decide to lead an online START course, I never know what difference it will make. All those who attended moved on in their faith journey and for some, it was a really significant step"
Please join us in welcoming those recently confirmed and praying for them:
Sharon Martin
Katharine Mary Verkooijen
Rebecca Ann Washbrook
Alice Grace Washbrook
Edith Francis Ambrose
Rachel Stevens
Neil Stevens
David Reed
Christopher Jones
Julie Steele
Rachel Tempest
Are you interested in being confirmed, if so talk to your local ministry team and find out more about confirmation here.
The START course originally produced by CPAS is now part of the Leading Your Church into Growth resources and is a 6-week introduction to the Christian faith that assumes no previous knowledge. With a lively mix of professionally-produced DVD clips, interactive discussion, fun activities and quiet reflection, Start! has been used in churches and groups of all types. For more information, visit here.
If you are thinking of running a START course, let us know by emailing comms@sailsbury.anglican.org.
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