Ecumenical involvement

1. Background

The Winchester, Eastleigh and Romsey (WER) Circuit was formed in two stages: by the union of the Winchester and Eastleigh Circuits in September 2012, and then by the incorporation of the Romsey Circuit in September 2016. By the nature of the member churches, the Circuit is intrinsically ecumenical. The United Church in Winchester is a partnership of The Methodist and United Reformed Churches. and as a result, the Medstead United Reformed Church is part of the WER Circuit community. In addition St Francis, Valley Park is a Local Ecumenical Partnership of The Church of England, The Methodist Church and The United Reformed Church. Our events have included contributions from The Joint Public issues Team, which is itself an ecumenical partnership of four national Churches.

2. Ecumenical relationships

Open invitations are extended to nearby churches for events and activities. These have proven to be focal points which have resulted in further collaborations, examples of which include cross-membership of the ecumenical groups (Romsey) and inter-church planning and presenting of a Green Fair. These events have spawned other informal partnerships, for example with Transition Town and Friends of the Earth groups. As a result churches have worked partnership with community groups on their events and activities.