Whilst deaneries are essentially groups of parish districts and do not have legal status, Deanery Synods offer a way to meet and share fellowship with others so that resources and ideas can be shared beyond individual parish churches. Deaneries provide an opportunity for friendship amongst Christians who will not always see eye to eye on every matter. Bishop Christopher has made breathing new life into deaneries a part of his Faith, Hope and Love Call to Mission. What follows is a collection of links to articles and websites that will be of interest to people who are wondering how to expand their vision beyond the parish and want to grow in their love for God's deaneries: Loving Deaneries and their Synods in Southwark Diocese Southwark Deanery Synod Induction Pack - Useful for new Deanery Synod members Southwark Diocese - Deanery Synod Lay Representatives - Brief leaflet about being a DS Lay Rep p6-7 (Sept 2013) Diocesan Structure and Breathing Life into Deaneries - excellent article from The Bridge Faith, Hope and Love Part III - page for gathering news about Southwark deaneries response to the Bishop's call Loving Deaneries in the wider church The National Deaneries Network - new website. These people really love deaneries. Old Church House Deaneries Group resources Old website, but has excellent links to resources. http://www.parishandpeople.org.uk/public/deanery_briefings.php - Practical guidance on Deanery related topics. Rules governing Deanery Synods in the Church of England: |