It was great today, and an honour, to meet up with others training for OPM (Ordained Pioneer Ministry) in the Church of England. It was great to network, to meet up again with Michael and Gareth.

We discussed issues around training, selection and first posts and it struck me how we are very much still pioneering pioneers. That probably sounds a bit twee but I do think it is amazing that the CofE has moved so quickly in such a short space of time. I think the clear and courageous leadership of Archbishop Rowan, who joined us for lunch and an short talk beforehand, has had a lot to do with this. I believe that this mans ministry of some 4/5 years has already achieved so much more than the Decade of Evangelism under the last Archbishop.

Bishop Graham Cray shared how he thought OPM was part of something bigger which could be taken as exciting, or as scary. In short, I don’t think any of us know where this thing is going and we need to decide whether we are going to trust the Spirit and follow God on it; or play safe and stay as we are!

Michael spoke well about his experiences at Gloucester Cathedral and Ben led some great worship at the end of the day focusing on hope which I found very challenging. I think pioneer ministry is going to be a challenge, and costly to individuals who get involved, but I guess we have to ask who has called us to this and where, or in whom, are we placing our hope?

Another great day!

Oh – the pic … it just made me smile as I have often made the mental link between OPM and poppies … and these poppies look kinda holy!