Issue 25 | Summer 2026 | www.canterburydiocese.org
Archdeacons’ Visitation News Dear Churchwardens I wonder if we are tempted to cry out – as the Israelites did in the wilderness (or as a child on a long journey) – are we nearly there yet? Yet even in that wilderness journey, God’s presence went before them, beside them, and behind them. As we work towards enabling revitalisation in our parishes, I wonder if it is sometimes hard for us to notice where God is already at work among us.
Mission Action Planning reminds us that our top ‘Three Things’ are not static commitments but part of a living, regenerative process – one in which we continually seek God’s guidance and remain open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. It is more than acceptable to adjust and adapt them as you go along; in fact, all of your Diocesan colleagues would wholeheartedly encourage this. For we are not journeying alone, but walking with the God who renews, restores, and leads us forward in hope. We hope you find encouragement in the articles in this publication and with those with whom you serve.
But if you pause for a moment and reflect on the past year – or even the past six months – can you discern the quiet, faithful ways in which God has been moving within your church or parish? Perhaps that coffee morning you planned to start is now up and running; perhaps that small building project is steadily nearing completion; or perhaps deeper, less visible, but even more significant transformations are taking place. I wonder if you have taken a moment to reflect on your ‘Three Things’ that were sent in at the end of last year? If not, perhaps now would be a good time. How has it gone? What’s working? What did you try that didn’t work? Where have you seen God’s grace bearing fruit – expected or unexpected? And as you look ahead, what might God be calling you to do next?
The Venerable The Revd Canon Will Adam Estella Last Archdeacon of Canterbury Archdeacon of Maidstone
The Venerable Darren Miller Archdeacon of Ashford