Pioneering Parishes: Helping parishes engage with people who are unconnected
Hear how other parishes have benefitted from these useful tools and practices to make their church more outward facing
PIONEERING IS AN INTEGRAL PART of how parish life is intended to thrive.
Pioneering Parishes helps clergy, lay leaders and congregations become more outward looking, extending the care of souls into the everyday life of the whole parish. Through practical tools, helpful practices and life-giving postures, it supports churches to discover fresh ways of joining in with what God is already doing in their communities.
In the words of a former participant:
“Every church wants to be more outward looking and this gives simple ways to be so”.
In this short video, you’ll see how churches are beginning to reimagine their life and mission within their parish context. It shares stories of change already taking place and introduces tools that can help nurture context-appropriate growth.
Discover more
Webinar
You may be interested in this webinar recording, Into All the Parish: Pioneering Parishes which offers a fuller overview of the vision and approach behind Pioneering Parishes. You’ll hear how parishes are seeing rooted transformation in both their congregations and local communities.
Further reading
Into All the Parish, published 15 June 2026 by Church House Publishing, offers clergy, PCCs and congregations a practical framework for renewing local ministry across the Church of England. Rooted in the Pioneering Parishes Project, it integrates pioneering and parochial approaches to mission, helping churches become more outward-looking despite limited resources.
Through stories, case studies and tools for reflection, it supports shared discernment and corporate discipleship. Authors Greg Bakker and Tina Hodgett invite parishes to clarify their values and extend care of souls beyond church walls with creativity and confidence. The book encourages conversation and hopeful imagination for sustainable missional growth in every community.
Next steps
Whether your parish is exploring new directions or seeking to strengthen its existing mission, Pioneering Parishes offers practical support for listening, discernment, conversation and openness to God’s leading. At its heart is a desire to help churches cultivate humility, curiosity and courage as they join in God’s mission among the people and places they serve.
To explore current opportunities and stories from parishes already pioneering change in their communities, or to get in touch with the Pioneering Parishes team, visit:
