A Shared Understanding of Mission - updated draft resolution

In response to feedback, Mission Forum has now published a substantially shorter and revised draft of the proposed Shared Understanding of Mission, together with an accompanying document explaining the journey and the thinking behind it. By Sandra Crawford

Over the past 12 months, Mission Forum has been listening carefully to feedback shared through the Baptists Together website and at Assembly regarding the proposed Mission Resolution and its wording for a Baptists Together Shared Understanding of Mission.

Feedback has shown strong support for the overall direction of the resolution, while several consistent themes emerged about how it could be strengthened. The highest priority was to make the resolution shorter, clearer and easier to understand. 

Participants also wanted greater clarity about its purpose and how it is intended to be used within the life of Baptists Together.

In response, Mission Forum has now published a substantially shorter and revised draft of the proposed Shared Understanding of Mission, together with an accompanying document explaining the journey and the thinking behind it. The hope is that further practical resources will also be developed in the months to come to help churches engage with the resolution, including sermons, small-group materials, art, prayers and poetry.

Baptist Union Council will receive an update on the progress of the Mission Resolution and the latest draft in October. Churches are encouraged to engage with the new draft over the coming months and share their responses and stories as we continue towards Baptist Assembly 2027.

By the time it reaches Assembly, the resolution will reflect well over two years of listening, reflection and collaboration. We encourage every church to consider who they might send to Assembly in 2027 to represent their community and take part in this important moment of shared discernment, which will conclude with a vote on the resolution.
 

Sandra Crawford is chair of Mission Forum and Pioneer Minister in Jaywick