Bushey, St James version: 3

Things seen about our local community

• Diverse population and growth in the area which is not reflected in church growth alongside a lack of Christian education.
• Unstable world.
• Breakdown of family life and values.

Three things we have seen about our church

• Fast-pace changes in the Church of England.
• Thriving Sunday School and Youth Sector as a result of fresh expressions and outreach.
• We have been aware of a greater awareness of the presence of the churches in our community.

Vision (for five years' time)

A Parish recognised as attractive to everyone by being an important part of our community.

Priorities (for the next five years)

• Sustainable congregations for all age groups.
• Church buildings 'fit for purpose'.
• A programme for spiritual education and growth.

Goals (for the next year)

• A 20% increase in average attendance across the parish in one year.
• To continue to develop, establish and support teams to resource Pioneer Ministry and to welcome the growth that it brings across our three churches and the Little Reddings area.
• By the end of September to have submitted all outstanding reports and financial statements
• In planning a second Giving in Grace campaign for 2017 we hope to grow spiritually (by investing more in people) and numerically (a target of 40% increase in CMF/stewardship was achieved in 2014).
• Within the next 12 months to complete a review and implement a five-year/ten-year plan of the parish property estate, to ensure we provide facilities appropriate to the needs of present and future users.