The Christian churches in this country face complex challenges and great opportunities for witnessing to Christ. The past 40 years have seen the whole people of God, lay and ordained, working in collaboration.

All too often, whilst the talents of individuals are recognised, little help is available to develop those talents in working together as equal partners in the service of the Lord.

We have much to learn from each other and now have an opportunity to work together, within this ecumenical programme of support and development.

There is an urgent need of help for clergy and laity alike in working together, hearing each other, applying the skills of the workplace to common goals in community life and in the management of resources.

The three courses which make up the first package begin with Working Together Effectively in which you will explore ways of developing your skills and understanding as leaders or facilitators, ways of resolving conflict and promoting and progressing ideas within a group.

The practical course entitled Managing Information aims to offer the chance to upgrade skills in the light of utilising basic computer technology to enhance work and, in the long run, to make life easier.

The Maintaining the Impetus - Pastoral Planning course offers a chance to hear directly how successful leaders of church communities are addressing the future. Pragmatic in its intent, it provides an opportunity to begin structured planning for parish development, incorporating all areas of the community and firming the foundations for times ahead.

Parish Management @ Burton Manor gives you an opportunity for developing the skills of people who are charged with running what are in effect, small businesses within a faith context.

ParishManagement.co.uk Focus Team (comprised of clergy and laity from different Christian Faiths)

Feedback

"An excellent course, led by inspirational and competent teachers."

"The whole presentation/ participation was excellent."

"I would now like to become more involved."

"It was of benefit as it related to management in the community rather than work."

"Analysis of personal style and identifying it in others was most useful."

"Thanks for putting up with me! Most enjoyable/ helpful. Good to meet people from other denominations."

"I feel I have learnt a lot and have more confidence."

"Gave me more confidence."