Today marked an important milestone in the life of our Deanery and local Church communities as part of the rollout of the Diocesan Plan The Word Who is Life. Representatives from across the parishes that will form the new single parish covering the former Deanery of Lewes and Mayfield, stretching from Seaford to Crowborough, gathered in Burgess Hill a central point on the deanery, today, on Saturday 25 October, to begin the next stage of discernment and planning.
The day, led by Fr Raglan Hay-Will and supported by priests, deacons, and lay leaders from across the area, was the first time that the lay faithful have been actively included in the transformational change process. From our parish, Claire, Mary Ann, Paul, Julie, and Deacon Stephen attended, joining others in a spirit of prayer, listening, and collaboration.
The gathering was honest and hopeful. It acknowledged the significant challenges we face, falling Mass attendance, fewer priests, a vocations crisis across the board, and the need for renewal in mission, while also recognising the deep desire among many for greater unity, prayer, and participation in the life of the Church.
Feedback from the session highlighted several key themes and priorities for the way forward:
- A new name is needed: participants felt strongly that the emerging community should not simply be called the Parish of Lewes, as this does not reflect the wider area or shared identity.
- Better communication is essential at every level, ensuring information flows clearly and consistently among all the parishes and communities.
- More opportunities for prayer that are not the Eucharist and not led by priests, especially times of Divine Office, Adoration, and Benediction to deepen communal prayer.
- Ongoing formation for the laity was seen as a priority, not only spiritual formation but also leadership and mission training to build confidence and capacity.
- Greater collaboration was called for between clergy and laity, and between the different church communities within the new parish area.
- Draft papers and plans were felt to be too long and needed to be shared more widely and accessibly, encouraging greater participation and understanding.
The tone of the day was one of courage and faith, a shared desire to face change together, with trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
As we continue this journey of renewal, let us pray for wisdom, openness, and unity of purpose, that all we do may serve the Gospel and strengthen the mission of the Church in our communities.