Norfolk church leaders sign commitment to work together

They signed a Declaration of Commitment for Christian Unity at an Evensong service at Norwich Anglican Cathedral on November 24.

The leaders, from the Anglican, Catholic, Baptist, Methodist, URC, Quakers, and Salvation Army denominations, aim to work together towards a shared mission.

The service was attended by around 150 people.

Church leaders vow to work together on issues like food poverty (Image: Keith Morris/networknorfolk.co.uk)

Bishop Graham Usher said: " In signing this declaration of our commitment to Christian unity, we are all saying loudly and clearly that we will seek to do all we can to see Christ in each other and be partners in the Gospel with Christ as our foundation.”

Liz Hoffbauer, who introduced the signing, said: "If all the Norfolk denominations joined forces and resources we could really make a difference.

"There is just not enough time for me to praise all of the faith projects supporting Norfolk people."

The leaders have set out their priorities for ecumenical mission, which include sharing friendship and understanding, helping the lost and vulnerable, and speaking with one voice in common witness.

Norfolk church leaders sign declaration of unity (Image: Keith Morris/networknorfolk.co.uk)

They also aim to diminish food poverty in Norfolk and speak out about the need for global peace.

Bishop Mike Royal, general secretary of Churches Together, witnessed the signing and said: "It was wonderful to witness the leaders signing that ecumenical document committing to a shared ecumenical journey for the next chapter."

The service was also attended by the Dean of Norwich Cathedral, the Dean of St John's Cathedral, the Deputy Lieutenant of Norfolk, and the Lord Mayor of Norwich.

The church leaders will continue their commitment to Christian unity on a pilgrimage to Rome in January 2025, just before the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.