The Diocese of Blackburn’s ‘Vision 2026: Healthy Churches Transforming Communities’ has three key aims: to make disciples of; be witnesses to and grow leaders for Jesus Christ.

The recent ‘Crossroads Mission’ which took place across Lancashire was a great example of people from our churches proactively being witnesses in our communities.

There were more than 450 different events of all sizes across the four days in early September – from men’s breakfasts to pet services!

Many people got the opportunity (some for the very first time) to hear about how Jesus died for them. We hope many seeds have been sown and will bear fruit in the months and years to come.

As the Crossroads event itself fades into the memory many churches are now running what are called ‘enquirers courses’ to give people an opportunity to ask further questions.

Courses like ‘Alpha’, ‘Christianity Explored’ and others are very popular with all denominations. Many people these days have not even crossed the threshold of a church and some people only visit on special occasions such as baptisms, weddings and maybe at Christmas.

So for some it can be an uncomfortable thought to make the first move and to go to church. That’s why enquirers’ courses make every effort to create an unthreatening atmosphere where people can feel comfortable.

Perhaps you took part in a Crossroads Mission event during the four days from September 8-11 and you want to find out more about that man called Jesus?

Or perhaps you are simply curious about the Christian faith and want to ask some questions of people who have the answers (or who know someone who does)!

If you do, and if you want to find out about your nearest enquirers’ course, just email my Parish Mission Support Department colleague Stephanie Rankin on stephanie.rankin@blackburn.anglican.org and she will be happy to help.

Ronnie Semley - Diocesan Communications Manager