Vision
four field farm-tiny.gif

 

Every church has a particular calling, and St James' is no different. As we've considered what God is doing through us it has become clear that we have four distinctive fields of ministry to cultivate. This has led us to crystalise our vision of the Four Field Farm. This vision is explained below, and you can explore the different outworkings of it through the links.


The Four Field Farm

four field farm-small-trans.gif

The first field is called the “London” field - the gathering of people from quite a wide radius. Many are new to London, coming for work or study. Sundays are key times, both for being built up and for being challenged to serve God in new and creative ways. Home Groups are also crucial for staying connected across a busy city. The most obvious place to see this field is at our 6pm service.

The second field is called "Local". It is work with children and others in the local area. The most obvious places to see this are in our Kids' Clubs and the morning services.

The third field is called "Away". It is the work of some 10% of St James' serving God abroad or as missionaries in the UK. The most obvious way to appreciate the importance of this field is to look at the Missions notice board at church.

The fourth field is called "Homeless". It is the very significant work God has called us to, over several years, to provide something for the physical social, and spiritual needs of homeless people on our doorstep. The most obvious place to see this field is at our Open Door Meal.

In the middle of the farm is the "Farmhouse" a warm place of nurture, nourishment, fellowship and encouragement, where everyone belongs. The farmhouse is more than the physical space of the church building. It represents all that gathers our life together, and farmhouse activities involve any and all members of the church.

So where is the fallow field? Many people have asked this question! At the moment, the fallow field is one we cannot see yet. Maybe some time in the future, one of our four current fields will become fallow while the "unseen" one becomes apparent through God leading us into something new. Who knows the future? Our task here and now is to get on with what God has so clearly placed before us.

St James' is one farm. People come in from any of the four fields, and often go out to be part of a different one - or two. That's why so many people find it to be such a growthful place. Our business is "Equipping through Ministry for Mission."