Some ways to belong
There is a desire at the heart of CFS to bond with Jesus, each other, and Southend-on-Sea. We are big on relationships.
For some, becoming a ‘Partner in CFS’ or ‘Friend of CFS’ are helpful ways to express this commitment. Deep down we are about living out the CFS values together whether you decide to do these other things or not.
In becoming a Partner in CFS,
In becoming a Partner in CFS you promise to serve and be served by the CFS community. You don’t commit to Church from Scratch as an institution but rather to the other people in the CFS community; to live out the values and venture together into the new, for the year ahead.
Everyone gets involved in decision making in CFS and when it’s a really big decision like appointing a member of staff, approving the annual plan to spend money, calling a Baptist minister to plant another church, or leasing/buying another building, then after everyone has been consulted the Partners will vote to make a final decision on behalf of all.
This promise manifests differently for each person, and we are all guided by an understanding that our journey with God is a work in progress, and are committed to living life together as followers of Jesus.
In becoming a Friend in CFS,
In becoming a Friend of CFS, you express you belonging to our community in a less demanding way. Friends want to participate, support and cheer CFS on as they can. As a friend you might be:
- those beginning to explore faith and following Jesus as part of CFS, without wanting to commit to him or the community fully as yet – you are welcome;
- or those who have a first commitment to another church but you want to express your support for the CFS family – you are welcome
- or just want to belong but don’t feel that Partnership is for you.
At some point we’ll come up with some words for this ‘Friends’ commitment which you can download.