“Open Faith is a relaxed and inclusive Sunday evening service at St John the Baptist Church in Sampford Peverell at 6pm offering space to encounter the Christian faith in a way that is open, affirming and centred on love. Shaped by the life and teachings of Jesus, it brings together contemporary worship music, times of stillness, and space to reflect, creating an environment where people can engage naturally and without pressure. Recognising that life includes uncertainty as well as trust, we hope it is a place where people can connect with, rethink, or begin exploring faith, within a welcoming community shaped by compassion and honesty.

Whether you are exploring Christianity for the first time, or finding your way back to it, you are warmly invited to come as you are.”

This service will be on the first Sunday each month starting on the 7th June at 6pm

Devon’s first eight Lay Pioneers have been presented with their certificates in Pioneer Mission by Bishop Mike at the Bishop’s Palace in Exeter and Steph Packham, Ordinand in our Mission Community, was one of them. 

The course, which is run by the Church Mission Society, trains and supports those with a heart for mission outside of the church walls. Pioneering begins with a willingness to follow Jesus to the edges and to reach out into our communities to make a difference. 

During the celebration event students shared what they had been doing in their own communities. Here are some of the local projects Steph has been involved with.