To ensure a continuing Methodist Church presence in the East Lincolnshire Circuit, the following vision and mission strategy for the circuit was reviewed, amended, approved and adopted at the Circuit Meeting held on 8^th September 2009.

Vision Statement

The Methodist Church in the East Lincolnshire Circuit is called to serve God by increasing awareness of His presence and declaring His love. We respond to our calling by:

• offering to the community safe places for worship and acceptance;
• providing opportunities for spiritual growth and learning;
• providing space for church and community activities;
• showing care and support for all; and
• working for justice and peace for all people, and caring for the environment.

To put this vision into action, the following strategy is proposed:

Circuit Mission Strategy

Each church will need to produce a mission statement and strategy that is Stretching, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-tabled and which seeks to address the realisation of any of the following objectives:

By September 2010

1. To further develop the East Lindsey Methodist Partnership in Mission with our neighbouring Circuits.
2. Neighbouring Churches to create further opportunities for co-operation / fellowship and clustering by increasing, where and when appropriate, the number of shared services.
3. At least three Circuit Services to be held a year.
4. Establishment of further bible study and prayer groups in the Circuit.
5. Each congregation to review their weekly activities so as to ensure it is engaged in mission outreach.

By September 2013:

1. Growth in membership, activities, outreach and the establishment of local (ecumenical) groups throughout the Circuit.
2. Further amalgamations.
3. Local preachers and Worship Leaders in training.

By September 2018:

1. Appropriately equipped worship centres in strategic locations created by refurbishment or new buildings.

This strategy is to be reviewed annually by Church Councils and the Circuit meeting.

Each church will be expected to indicate what it is doing to adopt and implement this Vision and Strategy Statement.

8^th September 2009