The new town of Northstowe is being built on former RAF land near Cambridge. Just 1,500 of the planned 10,000 homes (upward of 25,000 residents) have been built. But, already, this new town is characterised by people working together to make a difference. Pathfinder Church has brought together those from across the Christian traditions and those new to faith. As they have put down roots in Northstowe, their commitment to “praying, exploring, and sharing” has inspired partnerships with schools, councils, and developers. To allow more fresh expressions of church to form, and to facilitate new community partnerships and a potential new community centre, a new legal framework has been set up. The Northstowe Church Network is a local ecumenical partnership of the Church of England, United Reformed Church, and Baptist Union of Great Britain. What unites those involved in this new charity is much more than denominational background. It is rooted, growing, and transforming faith based on an encounter with the eternal God who still changes lives today.
Celebrating partnership – the Northstowe Youth Hive, Romsey Mill, and other local connections
When Beth, Amanda, and Emma spoke to the Town Council, there was much to celebration about youthwork at this early stage in the life of Northstowe. But also, much still to do...
Celebrating Partnership – a visit from the Moderator of the URC Eastern Synod
We had a really special time recently when Revd Lythan Nevard, Moderator of the Eastern Synod of the United Reformed Church, came to visit our ecumenical gathering of Jesus-followers here in Northstowe, as we celebrated "Partnership" within our Lent Series. Together, we explored the story of how Jesus sent people out in pairs with a … Continue reading Celebrating Partnership – a visit from the Moderator of the URC Eastern Synod
Celebrating Partnership – becoming a Growing Faith Learning Hub
We are honoured to be able to announce that we have been selected to be one of 12 Growing Faith Learning Hubs, recognising our ongoing commitment to work in partnership with Northstowe’s young people, families, and schools - and our willingness to share both our successes and [let’s not call them failures, but] “learning opportunities” as we dig into this partnership adventure.
Togetherness on Safeguarding Sunday
Last Sunday, like many churches, we marked Safeguarding Sunday. It was a day to give thanks for all those working for the good of all of us, a day to hold in our hearts all those who have been hurt or harmed by our actions or inaction, a day to look to the future and … Continue reading Togetherness on Safeguarding Sunday
Presence, Participation, Partnering: steps on a Pioneering Journey
Sometimes, especially in a new town, we need to do more than just these: we need to step out, take risks, dream big… Pioneer something new....
What might it mean to “be Northstowe” – a Remembrance Day reflection
Remembrance Day in a new town is an interesting thing. None of us have ancestors or roots here. And yet we all come with a story and a heritage. Those stories, and what we do with them, will shape us. This week, in the Primary School, Secondary School, and, on Sunday, outside by our newly named Bug Hunters' Water, Northstowe is coming together to remember the horrors of war and the heroism of individuals through story and through silence, so that these may become real in the present and influence and inspire us to work for reconciliation, peace and justice in the future
Where is the light?
Where is the light? Northstowe's All Hallows' Eve; All Saints; and All Souls celebrations, marked around campfires, and in the ordinary places where God has sent us
Baptism and belonging – a role for everyone
What happened when we gathered around the font at our beautiful ancient Parish Church in Longstanton? A community came together...
Where to find the rich blessing of “Mutual Inconvenience” and holy discomfort
October is Black History Month. During the pandemic, we had spent some time trying to educate ourselves to be antiracist, by reading books, and watching videos. But in light of Beth's visit to Rwanda, can we do more. Is it time to call for some Reverse Missionary help?
Beth's Blog 