The 3-fold framework - a simple guide
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.

1. Building a Team of Local Leaders
The first main 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 will have someone in this role, and their job will be 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.
2. Offering More Varied and Flexible Worship
The second point is about making changes to when and how we worship together. Many of you have said you'd like more variety in our services and new ways to grow in your faith. Our team of preachers and leaders, along with others who help lead worship, will continue to offer different styles of services — not just on Sundays, but also during the week when possible. Some churches like Eggborough and Camblesforth have already started midweek services, and we'd like to encourage this in other places too. We're also grateful to those who bring special types of worship to our circuit, like "Messy Church" for families or "Contemplative Worship" for quiet reflection. We want everyone to feel there is a service that suits them, and we hope to try more new things in the future. Please share your ideas and experiences with us as we experiment with these new worship styles.
3. Simplifying Church Management
The third and final point is about making church life less complicated. We know that running our churches and the circuit can sometimes feel overwhelming, with lots of meetings and paperwork. Many of you have asked if there's a way to make things simpler, so we have more energy for the things that really matter — our mission and our ministry. The Circuit Leadership Team (CLT) is starting to look at how we can organise our 20 churches and the Circuit in a way that makes good sense and lightens the load. This will take time and we won't be making big decisions straight away. There will be plenty of chance for everyone to share their thoughts and worries before anything is decided. The aim is to create a structure that helps us focus on what God is calling us to do, not just on the business of "running church."
In Summary, we are setting out together on a journey towards new ways of leading, worshipping, and organising our churches. There is no hidden plan — everything is being discussed openly and together as a family. Change can be unsettling, but we are committed to moving forward in faith, with kindness, patience, and trust in God's guidance. Your questions, ideas, and prayers are important and appreciated as we shape the future of our Circuit. Let's encourage one another, keep listening to each other, and trust that God is walking beside us every step of the way.
This framework was first introduced in a letter to churches published in August.