Martyn Atkins, the President of the Methodist Conference discusses what he sees as the essential difference between ‘Emerging Church’ and ‘Fresh Expressions’
EC tend to be a new ecclesial community in virtually every respect. Often arising from Alt Worship they tend to be configured around a group of believers, often pilgrims with stories of aother associations with church and churches, now finding a home together in a group with a rich ecclesial life. …
By contrast FEx arise largely from inherited or traditional Church networks and often represent a renewed or innovative ministry within the whole ministry of the church. They seem to be more traditionally evangelistic in the sense that they are very often designed to engage people who do not know or have not experienced Christian faith with an authentic and innovative version of it
He’d be glad to know what you think.
Incidentally, congratulations are due to Martyn. I gather from yesterday’s Methodist Recorder that he has been designated as the new General Secretary of the Methodist Church, a position in many ways much more important than the Presidential office he now holds. Odd that the Methodist Church website doesn’t have this news up yet.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Olive Morgan 09.28.07 at 9:47 am
I presume that the Methodist Church website is waiting until Martyn’s (or should I say ‘the President’s) nomination has been agreed by the Methodist Council next month or, even, until it has been approved by next year’sConference in Scarborough. Whatever, Martyn is good choice for this prestigious office - a choice that will be very popular and will be very good for our Methodist Church. Our prayers go with you, Martyn.
PamBG 09.28.07 at 11:06 am
It’s good too hear that Martyn will be the next General Secretary. I’m sure he’ll do a wonderful job and maybe the evangelicals will feel more secure now there is an evangelical in the top job in Church House.
sally 09.28.07 at 12:07 pm
Good news indeed!
Methodist Preacher 09.29.07 at 10:01 am
Pam says:
maybe the evangelicals will feel more secure now there is an evangelical in the top job.
But there always has been an Evangelical in THE top job.
Toby 09.29.07 at 1:54 pm
Olive is exactly right. Martyn’s nomination needs to be confirmed by the October meeting of the Council before it goes to the Conference in July. Making a big announcement now would undermine the role that those bodies have in the process. Martyn is also keen to keep his current focus on the Presidency, rather than being seen as General Secretary in waiting.
Toby