Independent survey to explore attitudes towards the C of E in the Diocese

Meaningful Measures Ltd, an independent research company, is conducting a comprehensive survey to understand people’s views on the Church of England and the use of local church spaces in the community. The survey covers Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Wiltshire, and Swindon, which fall under the Diocese of Bristol. It aims to reach a broad audience, including those not involved with the Church, to capture diverse perspectives on this important topic.

Commissioned by the Diocese of Bristol as part of a broader strategy, the survey seeks to understand public opinions on the churches’ work and their community support efforts. This includes the provision of community groups, cafes, social action, and worship services. Additionally, the survey will explore potential new uses for church spaces and identify barriers that may prevent people from using these spaces. The gathered information will guide efforts to enhance local churches’ support and strengthen community and social action in the area.

Dr. Marie Polley, Co-founder of Meaningful Measures Ltd, highlighted the survey’s significance: “Previous surveys on attitudes towards the Church of England have not focused on the general public’s views regarding the wider use of churches for community support. This survey will provide valuable insights to inform future planning and initiatives.”

Harrison Leonard, Diocesan Director of External Relations, emphasized the research’s importance: “Understanding how people use church spaces and their views on potential community support activities is crucial for us to better support our parishes and build strong community connections. We want our parishes to reflect the diversity of the wider community and ensure everyone feels welcome and included.”

The survey is open until June 30, 2024. Participants have a chance to win a £100 voucher for a supermarket of their choice.

For more information about the survey, please contact hello@meaningfulmeasures.co.uk, or to complete the survey, follow the link below.

Complete the Survey

We are hosting an Enneagram course at St Michael’s Centre on 25 -27 April

The dates and times are:

• Thursday 25 April – 6pm – 8.30pm 

• Friday 26 April – 9.45am to 6pm then fish and chip meal together.

• Saturday 27 April 9.45am to 12.45pm

Enneagram is a great tool to help you get to know yourself better. With knowledge comes self-awareness, healing and acceptance. It isn’t really a personality type test, it is more what motivates us.

The course will be run by Beckky Widdows. Becky worked as a spiritual director at Trinity College, Bristol for many years and at Lee Abbey as a lay chaplain. She now works freelance in spiritual direction, retreat work, Enneagram teaching and counselling.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

For further information please email karenneedham@stmichaelsbristol.org

The course will cost £50, if you would love to do it but if the cost is an obstacle to you attending please do get in touch.

A service of celebration of the life of Janice Stace is taking place in the auditorium on Friday 19 January at 2.30pm, and all are welcome.

Following the service refreshments will be served.

Donations in memory of Janice may be made for the benefit of Pink Ribbon Foundation via this link

For those who are unable to make it the service will be live streamed on youtube – the link is here

The committal is taking place beforehand, and is for family and close invited friends only.