Every church has a particular calling, and St James'
is no different. As we've considered what God is doing through us it
has become clear that we have four distinctive fields of ministry to
cultivate. This has led us to crystalise our vision of the Four Field Farm. This vision is explained below, and you can explore the different outworkings of it through the menus on the left. The Four Field Farm The first field is called the “London” field -
the gathering of people from quite a wide radius. Many are new to
London, coming for work or study. Sundays are key times, both for being
built up and for being challenged to serve God in new and creative
ways. Home Groups are also crucial for staying connected across a busy
city. The most obvious place to see this field is at our 6pm service.
Click here to explore key aspects of this field. The second field is called "Local".
It is work with children and others in the local area. The most obvious
places to see this are in our Kids' Clubs and the morning services.
Click here to explore key aspects of this field. The third field is called "Away".
It is the work of some 10% of St James' serving God abroad or as
missionaries in the UK. The most obvious way to appreciate the
importance of this field is to look at the Missions notice board at
church. Click here to explore key aspects of this field. The fourth field is called "Homeless".
It is the very significant work God has called us to, over several
years, to provide something for the physical social, and spiritual
needs of homeless people on our doorstep. The most obvious place to see
this field is at our Open Door Meal. Click here to explore key aspects of this field. In the middle of the farm is the "Farmhouse" a
warm place of nurture, nourishment, fellowship and encouragement, where
everyone belongs. The farmhouse is more than the physical space of the
church building. It represents all that gathers our life together, and
farmhouse activities involve any and all members of the church. Click here to explore key aspects of the farmhouse. So where is the fallow field?
Many people have asked this question! At the moment, the fallow field
is one we cannot see yet. Maybe some time in the future, one of our
four current fields will become fallow while the "unseen" one becomes
apparent through God leading us into something new. Who knows the
future? Our task here and now is to get on with what God has so clearly
placed before us. St James' is one farm.
People come in from any of the four fields, and often go out to be part
of a different one - or two. That's why so many people find it to be
such a growthful place. Our business is "Equipping through Ministry for Mission." Click here to read more about our vision. (link not created yet) |