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Mystery Worshipper in the Midlands
05 November 2007
MYSTERY WORSHIPPER IN THE MIDLANDS: COMING TO A PEW NEAR YOU
CHURCHES throughout the Midlands are preparing for the visit of an unannounced visitor to their pews, the Mystery Worshipper.
Dozens of researchers are set to descend on a secret list of churches on Sunday 13 January - reporting on the comfort of pews, warmth of welcome, length of sermon and much, much more.
The project will be run by the Christian Research Association and the Heart of England Christian Resources Exhibition, to be held at the Telford International Centre (21-23 Feb 2008). Supporting the initiative is www.shipoffools.com, founders of Mystery Worshipper.
'We hope to cover a range of worship services of different traditions and styles, highlighting best practice,' said Steve Briars, CRE's Event Director. 'The project will help us monitor where there are needs and how the exhibition can meet those needs more effectively.'
Mystery Worshipper in the Midlands reports will be published on Thur 21 Feb at a special church ministers' breakfast on the first day of Heart of England CRE.
Sometimes dubbed the 'ideal church show', Heart of England CRE will feature up to 200 organisations, from book publishers to youth work specialists, relief agencies to chair manufacturers.
'I am delighted CRE is bringing to the heart of England the many organisations that provide church resources together with an innovative seminar programme,' said Rt Rev Jonathan Gledhill, Anglican Bishop of Lichfield.
'As we strive to make our churches more accessible to the communities we serve it is vital to equip ourselves with the best resources available and to learn from those who have experience and knowledge of the issues facing today's church. I recommend you visit the Heart of England CRE to be equipped and inspired.'
Under the title 'Your Church' more than 30 seminars and workshops will target issues like multi-media worship, debt counselling, child protection and gang culture. Expert advice will be at hand from people engaged at the leading edge of local church ministry.
The purpose-built Telford International Centre is one of the UK’s premier exhibition venues providing ideal facilities for both exhibitors and visitors, with plenty of close parking.
More than 4000 people, representing most mainstream Christian denominations, are expected to attend the event, the majority with some form of leadership responsibility in their local churches.
Issued by Stephen Goddard Associates on behalf of Christian Resources Exhibitions. For more information phone Stephen Goddard 01744 733898 or 07930 198209.
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