What is Three Things all about?
We are inviting every parish to join in a renewed commitment to God’s mission – right where you are, in your own context.
Our Three Bold Outcomes are our shared vision for 2030, but the journey starts with each parish and deanery discerning and committing to your three things that will move us towards that future.
Our diocese is shifting the focus of planning and support closer to the local church, helping to give you the tools and encouragement to lead mission in your community.
But we can't do that without your help. We want to know what you are doing in your community towards leading mission – that's where Mission Action Plans come in, helping you to identify what your three things are.
Mission Action Plans (MAPs)
Your MAP is a simple but powerful way to:
- Discern where God is already at work.
- Focus on realistic, honest priorities.
- Review what’s making a difference (and what’s not).
- Share ideas and identify what support you need from us.
It’s not an extra task – it’s naming what you’re already doing, what’s next, and what may need to stop.
The deadline for submitting your MAP is the end of December 2025. This will allow us to plan the best way to allocate our resources to support you at parish level.
Submit your MAP to us or email threethings@diocant.org
Further support - events
If you help plan your church's future, be part of our events to find out more.
These events are suitable for clergy and lay leaders including churchwardens, tresurers, PCC members and anyone involved in mission.
Sign up to our online webinar on Thursday 25 September at 14:00 when we will introduce the MAPing, give examples and have time for your questions.
If you would like to attend an in-person session about MAPing, book here for one of the dates below.
Further support - resources
3 Things: Simple Guide - A simple starter guide to get your 3 Things thinking underway.
3 Things: Parish Toolkit - Tools and resources to support you with your Mission Action Planning.
3 Things: Reimagining Mission - Inspiration for thinking wider about your Mission Action Planning.
A Three-Way Conversation
Mission is a shared calling between:
- Parish: You know your people and community. Your MAP leads the conversation.
- Deanery: Helps link MAPs, identify shared goals, and add value.
- Diocese: Supports your plans, shares learning, and finds resources to help mission thrive.
For help with anything to do with MAPing, talk to your archdeacon, email Archdeacons@diocant.org or contact Caroline on 01227 473597.