The Diocese of Durham is continuing its work on Called to Fruitfulness, a 10-year programme of transformation and renewal for churches across the region, supported by national church funding.
The vision focusses on four key strands to support church communities:
Growing Churches, which develops intentional discipleship, missional confidence and multiplication through the creation of new worshipping communities;
Growing Younger, which encourages engagement with children, young people and young adults through initiatives including chaplaincy, while supporting those who work and volunteer with them;
Growing Leadership, aimed at raising confident lay and ordained leaders and supporting clergy to be healthy and equipped;
Growing Mission, which helps churches and deaneries prepare the ground for fruitfulness, planning and identifying opportunities for growth.
These strands are not only a vision for the Diocese, but also a vision for individuals. Everyone has a part to play in the mission of God in the region at this time.
To help churches explore what Called to Fruitfulness could mean for them, three Archdeaconry roadshows will take place in early 2026. The events will be hosted by the Acting Bishop of Durham, Sarah Clark, the Archdeacons and Strategic Leads, and will include presentations on the vision, time for prayer, and discussion of next steps.
The roadshows will be held on
Tuesday 3 February 2026 at Cuthbert House in Durham (Durham Archdeaconry)
Monday 2 March 2026 at St Chad’s, Sunderland (Sunderland Archdeaconry)
Wednesday 29 April 2026 at Holy Trinity, Darlington (Auckland Archdeaconry).
All events run from 7pm to 9pm.
The evenings are open to anyone who would like to learn more about the vision and how they or their church can be involved.