Fit for Mission is the Diocese of Liverpool’s strategic transformation programme designed to grow a bigger church that makes a bigger difference, by revitalising mission, leadership, and governance across its parishes.
Overview
Fit for Mission (FfM) is a diocesan-wide initiative aimed at reversing long-term decline in church attendance and engagement. It seeks to create thriving, sustainable church communities by reshaping how parishes collaborate, lead, and serve. The programme is rooted in the Diocese’s vision: “Asking God for a bigger church to make a bigger difference”.
Background
The Church of England, particularly in Liverpool, has experienced decades of decline. Without intervention, this trend risks leading to further reductions in clergy and resources. Fit for Mission emerged as a response to this challenge, building on existing strengths while addressing systemic barriers to growth. It focuses on four mission priorities:
- Introducing people to Jesus
- Deepening discipleship
- Developing Christian leaders
- Working for justice
The programme does not impose uniformity but encourages local churches to embrace their diversity while working together more effectively. It aims to free clergy from administrative burdens, streamline governance, and foster collaborative leadership teams supported by skilled laypeople and diocesan staff.
The Discernment Process
Discernment is a key phase in the Fit for Mission journey. Named “exploration phase” It involves:
- Open conversations within deaneries and parishes and within PCC’s about the vision, goals, and implications of joining the programme.
- Listening events and consultations to ensure local voices shape the process.
- Scoping documents and FAQs that clarify expectations, address concerns, and promote transparency.
This collaborative discernment ensures that each deanery enters the programme with clarity, commitment, and a shared sense of purpose.
A year of the Exploration phase of Fit for Mission let to a PCC vote on 29 September 2025 in each of the churches of Sefton South Deanery.