What is the idea behind Team Ministry?

The current approach of assigning one minister per church is not sustainable. With only two ministers from September 2026, each would oversee 10 churches - an unmanageable number. Added to this, and very importantly, we believe it is time to revive some of Methodism's lay-led roots by empowering lay people in missional leadership and expanding opportunities for local ministry. This will be overseen by the ordained ministry team. This model, of the ordained ministry team sharing the pastoral charge for the whole circuit and equipping and encouraging lay leadership of local churches and missional initiatives, is how the Methodist movement was brought to life, and is still the way our structures are embodied in our Standing Orders.

What is a Local Missional Leader (LML)?

The idea is to bring together a group of people from across our churches who can help support and guide each local congregation. These people will be called Local Missional Leaders (LMLs). Each church may have someone in this role, to encourage, help, and be a key contact person for your church. They will work closely with our ministers and pastors, including Revd Ruth, Revd Joseph, Revd Arthur, and Local Pastor Eileen. The goal is for every church to have its own LML, so there's always someone you know and trust to turn to for help and leadership. One key feature of their role will be to encourage us in our local mission.

Is it the right name? Would people understand what a 'Local Missional Leader' is?

It's a starting point; we may find a better one over time. Should any better, more appropriate, name present itself, please let us know.

Is this another job you are asking us to take on?

Some church members may already be carrying out LML duties without realising it, and without proper recognition or support. We aim to identify and equip those who are so they can flourish in their roles.
The LMLs will meet regularly with the ordained team and receive support. They will be supported by an appropriate programme of coaching, mentoring and spiritual development.

What jobs do we give up?

This is a good question to be asking. One response is that we develop more effective ways in which we enable the governance and compliance responsibilities to be undertaken, which have placed significant demands on individual church resources; this topic is addressed in another section of the framework. Alternatively, it may not be necessary to relinquish existing roles or assume new ones. Instead, by adopting a different approach - with the additional support, coaching, and development available to LMLs - individuals can flourish in their current duties without making fundamental changes. Rather like Jesus instructing the disciples to cast their nets on the other side of the boat (John 21:1-6).

Who will be my Minister?

The ordained team will have Pastoral Charge of all the churches in the circuit, rather than a specific few. Efforts are underway to establish a central contact point (phone and email address) for anyone within the Circuit to reach them when assistance is needed. Added to this, the Team Ministry approach acknowledges that individuals possess varying skills, interests, and experience, all of which can contribute to the wider circuit rather than just specific congregations. As the Team Ministry approach evolves, the LML may assume the role of primary contact within a local congregation.

What's the role of the ordained ministers ('presbyters') in all this?

Presbyters in the Methodist Church play a key role in coordinating and equipping us in discipleship, worship and mission. Their ministry is often described as 'Oversight' - mission focused leadership through a ministry of word (interpreting the Scriptures and speaking about God, both to followers of Jesus and the wider world); sacrament (celebrating God's presence everywhere and presiding at baptisms and Holy Communion); and pastoral responsibility (leading, loving and caring for God's people).
Through 'Oversight', a key concept within the Methodist Church, Presbyters enable us as a whole people of God to also fulfil our calling as lay people to also grow in our ministries, gifts and passion in the local churches.
Distinctively, they are released ('set-aside') from employment elsewhere to offer their gifts and graces to share in God's mission by playing a vital part in helping the Church develop new vision and strategy.
Developing the Ministry Team will therefore, form part of the work of the ordained and Local Lay Pastor roles, so that more of us are equipped to exercise mission focused, pastoral oversight of churches in the circuit. As the Superintendents' Handbook (2025) says "oversight in the [Methodist Church in Britain] has a shared nature, however much it seems to be invested in an individual". By working closely with the LMLs, the aim is to better support and encourage all churches in the circuit.

Could a Local Missional Leader support a group of churches?

The simple answer is yes. For instance, if a group of churches have a common requirement or shared vision, it may be appropriate for a LML to support the group by facilitating knowledge and resource sharing among them to maximise effectiveness.

How do we select Local Missional Leaders in small churches?

Individuals from across the circuit may offer themselves (or be encouraged to do so by others) to be part of the circuit's Local Missional Leader group and will be appropriately 'safer recruited' into the role. They will serve as a resource, and through conversation may be assigned to an individual church or group of churches. This will be worked through to best harness the skills, interests, and experience of the LML, and according to the specific needs and vision of the church.

How do we get to the point of having LMLs for each church

We're taking this step-by-step. Several people have expressed interest in the LML role, and we will discuss with them the particular skills, interests, and experience they might bring to the role. Next, we'll pilot the LML role with one or more churches. What we learn will guide us as we expand the number of LMLs, potentially encouraging more people to participate.

Where do local preachers/circuit stewards/church stewards fit in?

We anticipate that some (but not all) LML's may well be exercising ministry in the church already, and in some ways this LML role simply acknowledges and supports their leadership. But this is a new venture and we're yet to fully work through how the LML role will operate within the churches or circuit. Part of the plan is to pilot the LML role with one or more churches, and to then reflect on our experience to learn and grow! This will help us all understand how LML's fit with current church roles.

Will Local Missional Leaders become 'overworked'?

It is essential that we prevent this from occurring. The proposals for LMLs aim not only to enable them to flourish in their roles but also to ensure they receive support through a programme of coaching, mentoring, and spiritual development. In doing so, we are committed to providing appropriate care for those who contribute their talents so generously.

What is governance?

Governance is the term used to describe how an organisation is operated, how it is overseen and held accountable for good practice and decision making in keeping with law, and with the aims/object of the organisation. It covers administrative activities such as:
Organisation - Establishing a body of trustees, and ensuring they are adequately qualified and trained, and they are accountable for the decisions they make.
Compliance - Making sure all relevant legislation is followed, such as GDPR, and Health and Safety regulations.
Finance - Keeping full and accurate accounts, maintaining the payroll of employed staff, and ensuring all Charity Commission regulations are followed and annual returns are submitted.
Safeguarding - Administering the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks on all relevant roles within the Circuit, overseeing the Safer Recruitment processes, and ensuring Safeguarding legislation, denominational policies and procedures, and best practice guidance is followed.
Property Management - Maintaining all properties (manses, chapels) and dealing with building projects etc.

Why has governance become a challenge?

The amount of legislative and organisational responsibilities required of organisations today are arguably far more complex for Circuits to navigate than in previous times. The result of this is that many Circuits are struggling under the burden of governance and management, with energy, time and focus diminishing for our prime purpose of mission and mutual encouragement. A brief look at the Superintendent's Handbook shows just how much of the detail and expectations of the role focus upon 'running' the organisation. Additionally, the number of church members involved in managing trusteeship for church and for Circuit is disproportionately large for the size of the organisation.

What exactly are we looking to 'reshape'?

This section of the framework comprises two main components. Firstly, it is necessary to consider the structure of the Circuit itself. A brief look at the Superintendent's Handbook shows just how much of the detail and expectations of the role focus upon 'running' the organisation. This is where conversations revolve around the concept of the Bridge Circuit and how that model of operation might assist us in the Goole and Selby Circuit.
Secondly, we need to explore the way the local churches are organised. The Goole and Selby Circuit currently includes 20 churches, each with its own Church Council/Trustees Meeting, and a range of roles and responsibilities needing to be fulfilled, including the need for a Minister to chair the meetings. We want to explore ways in which we can restructure how Church Councils/Trustee Meetings are run, in order to reduce some of the administrative burdens, and so release people to undertake the main mission of the church.
It should be emphasised that the term explore is central to this process, recognising that changes require time and careful consideration. There are no hidden agendas or preconceived plans; any formal recommendations concerning new governance approaches will arise through open dialogue, mutual understanding of key issues, and collective discernment of how God is leading us forward. This conversation is NOT about 'closing churches', it is about streamlining how we function to avoid repeat activities that these days could be approached in different ways. The aim is to enable more focus on mission and worship, and fewer people needed for all the 'governance' roles.

What options are there for the Circuit?

Many Circuits and Districts around the Methodist Connexion are exploring new ways of approaching how their areas 'function', and how governance can be done well, but in a way that is proportionate to the size and needs of their organisation. Key to this is releasing church to be church without focus of time and effort being primarily absorbed by 'running the organisation'. Some Districts have amalgamated, as have Circuits - recognising that this a way to streamline governance processes and the number of people needed as trustees. The Yorkshire North and East District has gone a slightly different route; by establishing a new Circuit (Bridge) whose role is primarily to be a governance body within which local methodist areas (circuits) can operate. Basically, this Circuit oversees, manages, and provides governance so that those who join the Circuit are freed to focus on their local mission. If Goole & Selby chose to join into this approach, rather than being a circuit/charity in our own right, we would be a Mission Area of the Bridge Circuit.

What is the Bridge Circuit?

The Bridge Circuit was created in 2023 as a new expression of Circuit within the Yorkshire North and East District. The Bridge Circuit is all about providing excellent governance and operational management so that as much time, energy and passion can be released for mission. The Bridge Circuit is available for existing circuits to join so that rather than 'running' the organisation, they are released from governance burdens to re-focus on local mission and ministry. Circuits that join the Bridge Circuit become known as a 'Mission Area'. Each Mission Areas has at least one Minister who supports the church communities to explore and develop local worship, events, activities and initiatives that share, declare and live out the gospel of God's love in Christ.

Where is the Bridge Circuit?

There are currently five Mission Areas in different places around the District and each focus on developing the mission and ministry of the church in their own communities. They are Beverley (East Riding of Yorks), Bridlington (East Yorks Coast), Pateley Bridge (Nidderdale, North Yorks) and Wolds Edge (East Yorks Wolds) and Ripon & Lower Dales.

When does the Bridge Circuit get too big?

It is recognised that the Bridge Circuit can't keep growing as the number of trustees (representatives from the Mission areas) increase as each circuit joins. However, because of its popularity, the Bridge team has begun discussions about its development and the creation of another Bridge-style Circuit.

How are the Bridge Circuit currently helping us?

The Circuit Leadership Team (CLT) have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Bridge Circuit. Through this agreement, Sue Cutting and Thomas Rattigan provide assistance with financial and property matters. Sue has assumed the role of Circuit Treasurer and, together with Margaret Adderley, oversees the management of circuit manses and vacant chapels to maintain efficient stewardship of assets. Thomas is reviewing other property issues within the circuit. Additional support from the Bridge Circuit may be available if needed. This work is a provided to us at an agreed annual cost.

How would we benefit from joining the Bridge Circuit?

We would become a Mission Area, and only a small number of our current trustee group would hold any circuit trustee responsibilities in the way 50-60 people do at present. When we come together for meetings these would focus on growth, worship and mission, sharing ideas, and supporting one another.
The Circuit finances, property and legal responsibilities would be handled for us by the Bridge Trustees and paid staff team. Tasks such as Circuit property consents, annual reporting to the Charity Commissioner, auditing would be the Bridge's responsibility to fulfil.
We would be part of a network of mission areas seeking to support one another with grants and shared experience in missional development.

What might this change look like?

There are currently two models of multi-site church suitable for a Methodist context: the 'hub church' model and the 'sectional' model. In the 'hub church' model, several (probably smaller) churches become classes of a larger church. In the 'sectional' model, several churches join together to become one church council whilst being church communities (as now) on several sites. More details on these models can be found on the Methodist website.
An example of a church using the 'sectional' model is Wolds Edge Methodist Church, which meet at several locations including Bubwith, Holme on Spalding Moor, Melbourne, Newton, Pocklington, Sancton, and St John's, Market Weighton. They are all part of one single church council, who act as a trustee body for the 'One Church'. Each site congregation has a fellowship and planning team to look after the day-to-day life of the church - and its mission & worship in the local community. The one church council is responsible for governance of all, and the local church communities have delegated powers to ensure the local sites function easily. The finances of all are consolidated into the one church council, with arrangements made to ensure that each chapel retains use of its own money and has practical banking arrangements. Processes are put in place to make it easy for each church community to respond to local property or financial matters as needful. Each local church retains its own identity as part of the larger network (church council).
For example if we were largely One Church (see ecumenical note below) we could be known as Goole & Selby Methodist Church in Eggborough/in Sherburn/in Gilberdyke etc.
Other models and approaches to restructuring will be considered in upcoming meetings.

How does this system work with ecumenical partners?

Local Ecumenical Partnerships (LEPs) usually have their own constitution, which affects how trustees govern the church and limits certain restructuring options. However, this does not mean that they are not 'in the story' of any local restructuring. Indeed it is important to maintain and develop our 'oneness' as church in the area. We will explore how to best to nurture our continuing strong relationships by, for example ensuring shared fellowship and mission meetings wherever possible, providing shared administrative services to help ease the LEP's burden of governance and management and pursuing collaborative work. We would also, intentionally maintain open dialogue and foster mutual understanding and shared missional and worship priorities as we do now.

How many church buildings do you think there should be?

This is not an easy question to answer!
Our language is important here, as the word 'Church' is often used to describe a building - 'we go to church…' - when in fact 'Church' as translated from Greek into English in the Bible ('Ekklesia' - 'called out ones') refers to people, to a community of Christian believers - It is important to distinguish between the 'Church', referring to these local faith communities, and the 'chapel', which denotes the physical building.
The building is intended as a physical space set aside to serve the needs of the local faith community and the mission within the local community. When these buildings offer a place for faith rooted added value to the community, every effort can be made to maximise its potential.
If the buildings become a challenge or burden, to the Ekklesia it is for them - the local Church - to discern appropriate next steps. The Circuit will always provide support to assist Churches making decisions about their future.

Will my church close?

As with the answer above, it is important to distinguish between the 'Church', referring to the local faith community, and the 'chapel', which denotes the physical building. The local Church Council is responsible to consider both what God is calling them to pursue and what they may need to pause or stop, acknowledging that endings are sometimes necessary for new beginnings in God's work.
A specific building is not always necessary for God's church to be an active presence in a location. Maybe we actually have more than 20 churches… after all how many informal fellowship groups, prayer groups, Bible studies are occurring beyond a chapel building, in homes or in public places such as residential homes?
In Pocklington, for instance, structural issues led to the closure of the main worship space, but the Ekklesia - the local church congregation - remains active in the community and now gathers in an alternative nearby facility.

Do we really need 20 places of worship?

Possibly not - what do you think?
It has certainly been said at our gathering events that we have enough resources to fellowship and worship together in perhaps four venues.
That may not of course mean that the other buildings should be closed as faith rooted community mission spaces.

How can the local members voice their opinion if the church council is taken over by an outsider?

Who do we mean by an 'outsider'? In both current models of multi-site church governance cited earlier, some members of each local church that becomes part of the multi-site Church form this new Church Council. The church council is a new 'us'. There is no 'take-over', and no-one is an outsider.
This council is responsible for governance matters concerning the member churches as the 'Managing Trustees', while mission and ministry activities within each local church-site remain under their own direction. There is also a need and opportunity for people to manage local banking and property maintenance matters.

Will our geography make it impossible to walk together and share?

Although the Goole and Selby Circuit encompasses a considerable geographic area, the Bridge Circuit possesses significant expertise in overseeing multi-site trusteeship and coordinating mission activities across even larger distances. Their experience offers valuable insights that can inform the development of effective collaborative working mechanisms. Many circuits that are re-shaping local church governance to be multi-site church, like Wold's Edge Church and in Thirsk & Northallerton, are widespread.

Why are we developing The Plan?

Across a typical quarter, there are about 190 Sunday morning services to fill. The current pool of preachers - including Ministers, Local Preachers, and visiting preachers - can cover around 100 slots, highlighting a significant shortfall. This deficit shows the necessity for joint services and local arrangements. Additionally, we must fill approximately 25 Sunday evening and midweek services, with only some covered by Ministers. To meet churches' current expectations for Holy Communion, about 45 services per quarter are needed, which exceeds the capacity of Ministers and Supernumeraries, even if all they ever did was Communions! It is clear that we must further develop the Plan to ensure it meets our needs as we move forward.

Does this just mean more 'hub' services?

Introducing new worship patterns can cause tension and uncertainty around the circuit. The recent 'hubbing' of village chapels for united Sunday worship has generally increased the 'quality' of worship through increased voices in singing, and wider fellowship, but also raised concerns by moving away from the tradition of one (morning) service in every church building. Due to the challenges in resourcing the Plan, alternative approaches are necessary and given a chance, may actually be really worthwhile! Over time, further discussion and feedback about which aspects of worship are most valued, will help us propose a workable new pattern.

What other things are you suggesting?

A variety of worship types and formats are already present across the circuit. In addition to traditional Sunday morning services, alternatives such as Extravagant Worship (held on Saturdays), New Inspirations (NI), and contemplative worship on Sunday evenings offer different approaches. Other services, including Messy Church and café-style gatherings, are also held regularly, although they are not always recognised as formal worship events. Our intention is to build upon these existing activities throughout the circuit and further expand the diversity of worship opportunities available.
Furthermore, while technology is currently used in some church buildings, it has not yet been widely adopted for purposes such as offering simultaneous worship services at multiple local venues through streaming. There is potential to explore how technology can facilitate our worship and develop more accessible circuit and church prayer gatherings, both in-person and online.
Please share your preferences or suggestions regarding worship, prayer, or other types of gatherings.

Some people like routine and pattern in their worship. A known order.
    Repetition is comforting. Is this a step too far if we introduce different styles - days - music?

At the circuit gatherings earlier in the year, participants expressed a desire for new opportunities and ways for the Church to support faith journeys. Many emphasised the importance of worship for spiritual growth and called for more diverse and adventurous worship styles. Music and varied service formats, including different approaches to Bible teaching, were highlighted as crucial for engagement with God. There was a strong emphasis for worship to help members grow in faith and confidence to share it with others.
The main goal is to offer to offer a wider choice of worship styles and times, supporting spiritual growth, and enabling opportunities for outreach.

When, where and how can we celebrate communion?

We recognise that Holy Communion holds significant importance for many individuals in their spiritual lives. According to the Methodist Deed of Union, "It is the privilege and duty of members of the Methodist Church to avail themselves of the two sacraments, namely baptism and the Lord's Supper."
Our intention is to provide access to the sacrament of the Lord's Supper as fully as we can. In the coming weeks and months, there will be numerous opportunities for everyone to indicate which aspects of worship they value most. By carefully considering this feedback, we will be able to develop an informed proposal regarding the celebration of the Lord's Supper. There are logistical constraints, however, on the number of Sunday Services of Holy Communion that can be held, and it is important to consider the implications if ordained staff primarily lead only Holy Communion services.

Can we have more events?

What would you like? Please share your preferences or suggestions regarding worship, prayer, or other types of gatherings.

What is the next step, is there a timeline?

We are moving forward by using the framework offered by our analogy of a 3-legged stool. By focusing conversation and sharing about each leg in turn we hope to create an open environment for our discernment and decision making.
Each leg is of course interdependent on the others, and the connecting/strengthening of our framework through worship and prayer and relationship is of key importance.

Leg 1: Team Ministry. we have had several meetings regarding the Local Missional Leader role, with additional sessions planned as part of preparations to introduce these roles in 2026.

Leg 2: Structure - a. Circuit Governance. Whilst the church governance review is being worked through, CLT will explore the option to become a Mission Area of the Bridge (or new Bridge 2) Circuit, with the aim to resolve the issue in time for the Methodist year beginning September 2026.
This is a Circuit Meeting decision, proposed by the CLT, through consultation with the local churches.

Leg 2: Structure - b. Church Governance. Church governance conversations will take longer, to ensure suitable models are identified and gain member church's agreement. It is important to get the balance of too fast/too slow right as we move toward these constitutional decisions. NB. Changes to the structure of the church councils is a local church council decision, proposed by, supported through and ratified by the Circuit Meeting.

Two informational and conversation sessions are set for 30th September and 3rd December.
A feedback, vision, and action session is scheduled for 24th January 2026.
Movement to proposals/decision for new church governance structure may then proceed as follows:

• Any proposals that emerge from the conversations (above) tabled to the March 2026 Circuit Meeting, for discussion.
• Time will be given for each church council to reflect on these. Additional Church Councils held to discuss.
• Amendments to initial proposals (as appropriate) will be made in time to be tabled to a June 2026 Circuit Meeting.
• This could mean that in Autumn 2026 a formal resolution to renew the church constitution is presented to each participating church council for agreement.
• An additional Circuit meeting to ratify and celebrate the work we have engaged in could be held in eg November 2026
• Any changes to the church structure will be piloted through 2027 and come into place in the Methodist year beginning September 2027

Leg 3: Worship and The Plan. Some changes to the Plan and new ways of worship have been included in the next (Dec-Feb) Plan. As further suggestions are made, more changes may follow by the spring (Mar-May) Plan in 2026.

As we move forward, we invite everyone to embrace change, renewal, and the promise of new beginnings as we journey into a new future with God.