Pioneering Book Club
The book club is for those who support pioneers, lead parishes and/or want to see culture change in their worshiping community.
Who’s it for?
Anyone who is interested in pioneering in a parish context whether they are pioneers or not. It’s a great place to continue your learning and join discussions if you have completed First Steps or any other Pioneering Parishes course.
What can I expect?
An informal discussion of the current book hosted by Jen Camirand and Greg Bakker. Each month the group will focus on a chapter and consider how it is appliable to various contexts and what it means for you. Expect deep thinking, an opportunity to examine feelings and plenty of humour.
What are we reading? Being Interrupted: Reimagining the Church’s Mission from the Outside, in.
Al Barrett and Ruth Harley open a door to a creative disruption of the status quo, ‘from the outside, in’: the in-breaking of the wild reality of the ‘Kingdom’ of God. Through careful and unsettling readings in Mark’s gospel, alongside stories from a multicultural outer estate in east Birmingham, they paint a vivid picture of an ‘alternative’ for the Church’s life and mission, which begins with transformative encounters with neighbours and strangers at the edges of our churches, our neighbourhoods and our imaginations, and offers new possibilities for repentance and resurrection.
Buy the book: https://cms.org.uk/being_interrupted
Led by?
Jenn Camirand:
Jenn was ordained in June of 2023, and serves as an Assistant Curate in the Parish of West Leigh, at St Alban’s church, in the Diocese of Portsmouth.
Prior to beginning her life in England Jenn lectured in Nutrition in Canada, where she was born and raised, and practiced as both a Clinical and Culinary Nutritionist. Jenn’s previous experience in middle to large business operations fostered a profound interest in both ethical and cooperative business structure, and led to the realisation of two small businesses centred around nutrition and the environment, food supply, and the availability of healthy food for all. Before entering the workforce Jenn’s formal education was in Literature and Print Journalism.
Jenn’s interests include a deep rooting in both the sacraments and scripture, working inclusively within the church, community, and faith groups to promote both spiritual and physical well-being, and to create an environment that is welcoming to those with faith and none. Jenn believes strongly that worshipping a generous God is about the hope that if we do things in a humble, loving, and respectful way, that we will, both individually and collectively, be transformed.
Rev Greg Bakker:
Greg was until recently the pioneer development officer for the Diocese of Portsmouth. As an experienced parish priest of 30 years and thought leader in the skill of advocating for pioneers, he is committed to creating space for both pioneers and parish churches to thrive in the work of developing new Christian communities. Greg has led a parish church based on values and indicators so has plenty of experience and wisdom to share.
When is it? Tuesday, 1 April 2025, from 7:30 – 9.00 pm
Where is it? Takes place via Zoom.
How much does it cost? It’s Free!
Ticket sales close: 25 March 2025
