By using a discovery based learning process, we affirm what our people already know and value. It encourages them to assume responsibility and to find ways to move forward.

This process first focuses on a topic through a probing question, gathers and affirms the experience of participants, and structures their responses to elucidate the body of their knowledge. This opens up the way to achievable future action outcomes.

In the discussion, input is given dialogically by any one present, but the setting affirms the leadership of the session leader. As an educational method, it sits between and away from both didactic teaching and general pooling of ideas in discussion.

This process, for those unfamiliar or unconfident, will be demonstrated at the proposed “Ministers and Leaders Workshop”.

This process is transferable and suitable for implementation by individuals or groups in a variety of settings including informal settings with their own family and acquaintances, their local community, rural and remote communities, the workplace and in the congregation.

The list of topics chosen for 2004 and the process being emphasised will empower those whose attitude to faith-sharing is “would if they could”. It sets free those who may be feeling held back.

To those who are very risk-averse, the learning process must be allowed to operate at a level far from ideal, so that mistakes can be made and our patience tested. If Grace abounds in this, then growth can result.

This is not the answer to everything, and will compete with some existing patterns. If this is of the critical importance as we believe, can it please be given room to grow.