The Covenant at Work – A First-hand Cumbrian Case-Study

Abstract In 2011 the leaders of three Christian denominations in Cumbria signed a Declaration of Intent committing themselves and their churches to working more closely together. This article traces the development of ecumenism in Cumbria since then. A core part of the ecumenically-agreed ministry strategy is the ecumenical mission community. What does this mean, and how do we make it work given the existing denominational structures and ways of working? In telling the story and highlighting some specific examples, this article explores some of the ways in which this initiative reflects the commitments of the Anglican–Methodist covenant and draws attention to some of the biblical and theological themes that underpin this work.