In June, World Mission Partnership published our initial response to changes being made to the Mission Partner programme administered by the Methodist Church in Britain (MCB). That response is available here: https://irishmethodist.org/world-mission-news/mission-partner-programme

 As we stated then:

“MCI remains committed to enabling Irish Methodists – both lay and ordained – to answer God’s call to serve his world church. MCI’s World Mission Partnership (WMP) team will actively explore alternative ways for lay people to serve in mission overseas, in collaboration with MCB’s Global Relationships team, sister churches and potential partner agencies.”

Since this statement was issued, WMP have consulted with a range of churches and mission agencies. These discussions highlighted the challenges associated with facilitating lay mission, and particularly the importance of having specialist staff, systems and knowledge to support mission partners. WMP does not have the capacity to provide this support, either in terms of staff numbers or the expertise required to properly manage and care for people working overseas.

However, the consultation period also helped to identify an alternative route for WMP to support lay Irish Methodists in overseas mission. Details are still being finalised, but we hope this support will enable Irish Methodists to serve with other mission organisations who already possess the relevant systems and expertise to facilitate lay mission.

 WMP will share further updates in the coming months.