Until the arrival of Bishop Helen-Ann in 2023, Newcastle Diocese had a set of three one-word values that appeared on many diocesan publications: Open, Generous, Engaged. Since then our new bishop has introduced a new set of three words that aim to take each of these a step forward:

SEEKING through being Open to God’s transforming love;

SHARING through being Generous with God’s transforming gifts;

SENDING through being Engaged in God’s transforming work in the world.

As she explained to the Diocesan Synod, we are being called by God to 

Turn outwards in mission and grow younger and more diverse. We are to be youthful in scope, mindful of the realities of our diverse contexts, and think of audiences beyond the ones we see now.

This may well mean significant changes. It will be uncomfortable for some, while at the same time making us more diverse in age and background. 

 This will require us to 

- Build confidence in belonging and believing, lifting morale;

- Be realistic and hopeful about finances;

- All - clergy and members young and old, whatever our background - to be open and willing to change and be changed.

Compiled locally, from reports received from the Diocese, of Bishop Helen-Ann's address to the Diocesan Synod in May 2023, in the absence of any definitive publications on the subject from the Diocese. We  apologise for any inaccuracies or misinterpretation, and would appreciate any official publication on the subject.