We need the input of worshippers to think how we should deploy clergy, Readers and lay ministers across the diocese in future.

It’s part of our drive to put together a strategy of ministry for mission, to ensure that we grow as a diocese, even though we may have fewer paid clergy in future.

Since the Pompey Chimes announced in July 2008 that ‘Something must be done’, our Diocesan Synod, Bishop’s Council and deanery representatives have been looking at how an Anglican theology of ministry can be married with the needs of our diocese.

The next stage is for worshippers to share their ideas at three archdeaconry consultations. Each will include worship, presentations and discussions, and feedback will help a working group start to think about the strategy itself.

The first meeting is in the church hall, St John the Evangelist Church, Upper St Michael’s Grove, Fareham, on June 27. The second is on July 18 in the theatre, Ryde School, Queen’s Road, Ryde. And the third is on September 5, at St Peter and St Paul’s church hall, Medina Road, Wymering, Portsmouth. Each starts at 9.45am and should finish by 1.30pm.