ONE of the key elements of our new diocesan strategy is to make sure our clergy and lay leaders are inspired and sustained as vibrant disciples.

The REVIVE part of our strategy envisages them forming small groups to eat, laugh, learn, lament and pray together. They can offer each other support and theological study within these groups.

One part of our diocese where that’s already working is the Western Wards of Fareham. Those who lead our churches in Hook-with-Warsash, Sarisbury Green, Titchfield and Locks Heath meet once a fortnight for breakfast, which includes prayer for each other.

The desire for clergy to work collaboratively led to the four parishes forming a ‘covenanted partnership’, which also involves joint services, prayer meetings and other activities.

The Rev Mike Terry, joint vicar of St Mary’s, Hook-with-Warsash, said: “Geographically, we are fairly cohesive and we’ve been meeting regularly as clergy and lay leaders since Kairos 20 years ago. It was especially important when parishes were in vacancy, as churchwardens felt supported.

“We didn’t want to become a ‘super-parish’ and so embraced the idea of a covenanted partnership, which was approved by all PCCs. We hold Alpha Courses and evening services together, and we’ve now held two covenant partnership services. We hold lightly to parish boundaries.”

For new clergy arriving, such as the Revs Luiz Lima and Penny Thatcher, the group has been a godsend. Luiz, from St John’s, Locks Heath, said: “I knew how valuable this group would be as fellowship and in strengthening our leadership. And I can see that it has helped during interregnums.”

And the Rev Janet Trevithick from St Peter’s, Titchfield, said: “We’ve been finding opportunities to work together, including retreats and spirituality days, and Messy Church.”

One of Bishop Jonathan’s suggestions is that groups such as this one pilot a new approach, perhaps jointly studying a mission resource such as ‘Divine Renovation’, or similar material.