The purpose of life is found in little moments and opportunities given to us by God, and what greater joy can we have than when the opportunity is about advancing his Kingdom?
This September, a team from the Diocese of Leicester, led by Revd Dave Rollett, will be travelling to Tanzania to visit our link partner dioceses of Kilimanjaro and Kiteto.
They will be heading out for approximately two weeks on Thursday 4 September, to accomplish a mission in faith, friendships and purpose, and discover the daily lives of people living on the other side of the world.
This trip gives an opportunity to build relationships across linked dioceses and local communities – sit beside fellow believers, worship in their language, walk their roads, and share their tables.
Their time in Tanzania will be shaped around three core aims:
1. To strengthen our diocesan links.
2. To engage in a learning exchange.
3. To equip each participant with fresh insight and tools.
The team includes a great dynamic of people with rich ethnic and generational backgrounds, and is made up of ordained, licensed, and lay members, each bringing their unique gifts and perspectives which reflect the diversity of the Church.
In recent weeks, they have been getting to know one another, having fun across activities such as orientation and team-building training.
This trip is more than a visit - it is a part of global conversations between churches that are rooted in strong relationships, humility, and shared faith.
While challenges are inevitable, let us pray that they find joy in learning the richness of faith expressed in a different culture.
As the Bible says, 'Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation,' - Mark 16:15.
In answering the call to share the good news, let us pray for good team dynamics as they learn to serve and listen well together, for their safety and protection in travel specifically in unfamiliar environments, and for good health, energy and wisdom in the face of the unexpected.
Pray that they might be open to the work of God in them, not just when they are away but also when they return.
And that they fulfil God’s desire to fill the earth with his glory and do the good work he sent them out to do.