From a conversation to a first family event: a new step in Clophill 

For a church considering a new activity, identifying one manageable first step can make a difference.

That was the focus of conversations between Rural Missions and the church leadership serving Maulden and Clophill.

In June, our worker met with the minister to talk through the local context and possible opportunities. Together, they considered a Messy Church-style event as a practical starting point for connecting with families.

The idea developed through further planning. On 4 October 2026, the first event took place in Clophill.

The staff report describes several families coming into the church and records that the minister was very pleased with the outcome. A further event nearer Christmas was being planned.

This is an early-stage story. One event cannot tell us everything about how a new initiative will develop. But it can give a church something valuable to build on: an experience of welcoming families and a practical opportunity to learn what works locally.

Our contribution began before the event itself, through listening, discussing possibilities and helping turn an idea into something achievable.

That preparatory work is often less visible than the activity people eventually attend. It is nevertheless an important part of helping churches take steps in mission with confidence.

We look forward to seeing how the church builds on this beginning.

It’s only with your support that we can invest time in these conversations and offer practical help as churches try something new.

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