What is Southwell Churches Open Forum?

Several years ago, a good friend invited me to a Churches Together in Southwell

Forum meeting. I was curious to find out about it so decided to go along.

It was a very enjoyable breakfast meeting at the Methodist Church. The forum

consisted of Christians from the many different churches we have in Southwell.

I was put in mind of the original definition of ‘church’ which is derived from the

Greek word ‘ekklēsia’ the oldest word for church and originally referred to a

gathering of citizens.

In addition, I was reminded of the origins of a ‘forum’ which was a meeting or

medium where ideas and views on a particular issue can be exchanged.

Southwell Churches Open Forum, as it is now called, is a perfect example of a

church forum where Christians come together. They meet for worship and

fellowship and with a vision to work together in outreach to our community.

Despite the formal sounding name, Southwell Churches Open Forum gladly

welcomes any Christians, wherever they choose to worship, to join us.

The forums are held in January, March, May, July, September and November.

Details of each meeting are circulated via your church notices, CTiS website

and Facebook.

If you would like to know more about the forum look at the website

www.southwellchurchestogether.org.uk

We look forward to welcoming you to these meeting