who and what?

Christian stewardship is at the heart of the work of the Parish Funding Unit.

The aim is to work with churches throughout the length and the breadth of the Diocese of Lichfield to meet the challenge of communicating Christian stewardship as an integral part of church life.

Today, the department consists of Neil Bradley, the manager and Ian Law, consultant, supported by a part time administrator Lorraine Allport.

Neil Bradley has specific responsibility for the Stoke Archdeaconry whilst Ian Law oversees the Archdeaconries of Walsall and Lichfield. Both have responsibility for the parishes in the northern half of Shropshire. Personal visits to PCCs, Deanery Synods and Finance Groups are undertaken.

Over the years the PFU has gained a wealth of experience and resources and in 2000 introduced a major initiative – Firm Foundations – a creative resource folder providing materials and ideas for churches. This has proved to be a useful and illuminating tool. The latest chapter ‘Narrative Budgeting’ was published just over a year ago and has been used by many churches as a way of linking mission with money.

The PFU has a resource library and also offers guidance on fundraising issues but parishioner giving is its main concern.