glasgow.jpg

Lifehope Glasgow

“impacting all of life” 

The vision of Lifehope Glasgow is to see ordinary, local congregations in the UK actively engaged in compassionate and genuine ways with their surrounding communities.  This is not seen as a gimmick or technique to win  people back onto empty chairs or pews.  Rather it is suggested because Lifehope Glasgow believe that the Church has a responsibility to reach out unconditionally to those who need help.  This has to be done in genuine, but relevant ways.  i.e. If there is a high level of unemployment in the area, what can the
local church do to help train, encourage or
simply befriend those who have no jobs?

The potential result of this action is:

•  The alleviation of hopelessness and suffering wherever it maybe.
•  an increased depth of trust and relationship between those in and outside the church.
•  a healthier and more vibrant church congregation as they see God using them to 'impact  all of life'.

“What does Lifehope Glasgow do then?”

As a ministry of Operation Mobilisation UK, Lifehope Glasgow is keen to partner with local churches wherever there is a joint understanding that they can work together in carrying out the above vision.  Lifehope Glasgow’s role will always be one that encourages and facilitates the church's involvement in community, recognising that it is the mission of the Church to reflect God's character in the world, not OM or any other agency.  OM UK and Lifehope Glasgow simply have the task of helping the church to do so.  Although every church is different, this will usually begin with an initial meeting with the leadership of the church to discuss the concept and decide on an agreement regarding the church's role and responsibility in the community.  A partnership is then formed and Lifehope Glasgow and the church decide on what is an appropriate level of involvement for Lifehope Glasgow in the life of the church.  This may range from as little as recommending some practical ways of going forward and reaching out in the local community, to as much as inviting a team, who would be placed with the church on a long term basis (1 year +), with the purpose of enabling and equipping the congregation to reach out.

When both parties were satisfied that the church had reached its original goals, then Lifehope Glasgow would step back, leaving the church to continue with its work in the community.