Mission Community of Topsham and Countess Wear

OUR VISION: To witness to the Gospel, through worship and fellowship, prayer and teaching, pastoral care and services to the community.

MISSION ACTION PLAN - click here to download.

The Diocese of Exeter is encouraging all churches to form new Mission Communities to take forward the Gospel message and the work of the church. The Mission Community of Topsham and Countess Wear has been approved by the diocese.

The creation of a new Mission Community is a great opportunity to bring together talents, experience and energy to the advantage of both parishes. Examples of joint working could include:

  • marriage & baptism preparation
  • confirmation classes
  • prayer ministry
  • home groups & bible study groups
  • parish administration (a shared parish office & administrator?)
  • outreach and mission

Licensing and Commissioning Service

The service to license Richard Jeffery as priest in charge of Countess Wear and commission the new Mission Community of Topsham and Countess Wear was due to take place on January 6th 2010 but had to be postponed because of the snow. It eventually took place on February 8th when Richard was formally licensed by Bishop Bob Evens and we celebrated the formation of the Mission Community.

Working and Worshipping Together

St Luke's, Countess Wear
Image Copyright David Smith

The Church of St Luke in Countess Wear Road was build in 1840 and was originally part of the parish of Topsham, so there is good historical precedent for linking the two parishes. With the fall in the number of stipendiary clergy available to the diocese it is no longer possible to have a vicar in each parish, but with the help of retired clergy and lay ministry the main Sunday service in each church will continue to be at 10am. When there is a fifth Sunday in the month we will have a joint service alternating between the churches. The 8 am Communion service every week is also now alternating between St Margaret’s and St Luke’s. It is hoped that we will work together in many ways, including organising shared social events and providing information on our website.

Visit the St Luke's Countess Wear website.

We believe that the Mission Community will offer a powerful and visual affirmation of the unity of purpose to which God is calling both parishes. It will also recognise the movement in the wider church towards every member ministry, as the mismatch between clergy numbers, church finances and ever-increasing need continues to grow. There are many challenges, but we believe that it is a journey of faith that we are called to make together.

For more information please contact the vicar or church wardens.

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