Church Revitalisation is a new department in the Diocese of Leeds. We focus on intentionally supporting and encouraging churches in moving forward in seeing ‘confident Christians, growing churches and transforming communities’. We would love to see every church in our diocese thrive in a way that works for them, is good news to its local community, and plays its part in the wider church.
Our department supports, challenges and develops the strategic goal of re-imagining ministry, seeking to help churches on the ground in growing the things they already do, but also in developing new ways of reaching out and being church.
We also work behind the scenes, working with buildings (via the DAC team) and legal structures (through our missional and pastoral team) to make sure that we are a working together to help churches grow and develop. You will hear more about the work of church revitalisation over the coming months- but for now please get in touch if you have done or seen something in your church that has worked for you, and you think could work for others. We are listening!
Church Growth
Our diocese is all about growing the local church. This means growing the church in numbers, spirituality, and out into our local community. Find out more.
Fresh Expressions and Pioneer Ministry
A Fresh Expression of church is a new Christian gathering developed mainly for the benefit of people who are not yet members of any church. Find out more.
Our Team
Director of Church Revitalisation
Revd Jude Smith
“I’m Jude and have been the Director of Church Revitalisation since May 2021. I have been around in Leeds since arriving as a curate in 2009. I have mainly worked in less financially affluent areas, in roles that have all had some element of pioneering within a parish setting. Before ordination my working life involved youth and community work, fundraising, teaching and church planting in various forms. Outside of work I can be found hill walking, running or cycling. I can get excited about pretty much any sport and am a fan of Luton Town.”
Talk to me about:
- Any questions about revitalisation (including what it means)
- Growing a church through community engagement
- Church planting
- What structural changes (buildings and legal) might help your church grow