17 September 2026
Clergy and lay representatives from Harlow Deanery Synod recently came together for a vision day at the Emmaus Centre, Thorley. The day was facilitated by the Revd Andy Griffiths, Lead Adviser for Wellbeing and Formation and Continuing Ministerial Development Adviser.
Drawing on passages from John 1 and Acts 10, participants reflected together on God’s calling and explored a shared vision for the deanery.
The Revd Andy Griffiths said:
“I really enjoyed joining the Harlow Deanery for this vision day. There was real energy in the room as we reflected on the Holy Spirit, who descends like a dove, and sought to put into words the desires God has placed on our hearts.
“People contributed in a variety of ways, from creative artwork featuring a rainbow-decorated elephant and an ostrich, to what one participant described as a vision from God of the Bayeux Tapestry, alongside thoughtful discussion and generous encouragement.
“Together, we discovered a desire to be a deanery that is Jesus-centred and open to the leading of the Holy Spirit, even when that means being lovingly nudged, stretched or surprised. Prayer lies at the heart of this vision, alongside a commitment to mutual care, togetherness, and collaboration.
“Like a family of elephants gathering to protect one another, the deanery longs to share gifts, wisdom, experience and resources generously, with a sense of subsidiarity – where decisions are made as close to the local context as possible. Ministers and churches should be able to say, ‘I’m glad I’m part of this deanery. It helps me.'"
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Participants discuss and reflect on a shared vision for Harlow Deanery.
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Participants enjoy fellowship and conversation during the Harlow Deanery vision day.
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The Revd Andy Griffiths shares themes and ideas emerging from the Harlow Deanery vision day.
The vision that emerged emphasised supporting churches through both the joys and challenges, reducing unnecessary burdens, and creating an environment where disciples can flourish and grow.
The Revd Darren McIndoe, Area Dean of Harlow, added:
“The passages we reflected on reminded us that God lives in and works through ordinary people like us, and that we are called to listen for the prompting of the Holy Spirit. They encouraged us to minister wherever God leads us and never to turn away from those whom God is calling us to love into his Kingdom.
“The vision day provided an opportunity to celebrate the rich diversity of our deanery. Our variety is one of our strengths, but we were also reminded of the importance of working together. By supporting one another, we can strengthen every parish and better serve our communities.”
This article is taken from the latest edition of WePray.
