Methodist Church's new Learning Network to encourage discipleship and evangelism

The Methodist Church is to launch its new Learning Network in the autumn.

The Discipleship and Ministries Learning Network launches on 1 September with the aim of helping Methodists grow and learn as disciples, and encouraging evangelism and prophetic action.

Jude Levermore, Interim Head of the Discipleship and Ministries Cluster, said: "We are on target to have the new Network up and running on time. It's going be enable us Connexionally to deliver learning and development for the whole people of God who identify as Methodist in a contextual, contemporary and excellent way."

The network will support discipleship, ministry, church and community development with scholarship and research.

Much of its work will be focused upon 11 regions grouping together Districts across England with Wales, and Scotland and Shetland.

Richard Andrew, Discipleship and Ministries Learning Network Project Manager, said: "The Methodist Church has always been a pioneer in theological education.

"The development of the Learning Network is a real opportunity for Methodism to build upon the legacy of the past in a way which meets the needs of the present and future whilst continuing to work closely with ecumenical partners. I feel genuinely excited by this opportunity in our history to renew the connections between learning, discipleship and mission at every level of church life."