Eryl Parry, along with her husband David, leads the Caru Conwy community in North Wales, exemplifying the fresh expressions approach to new faith communities. Eryl’s journey is marked by a transformative shift from her corporate career in Liverpool to a calling that brought her back to her Welsh roots. As a pioneer priest, Eryl describes her story as a coming home, embracing the opportunity to serve in a landscape that resonates deeply with her identity.
A Unique Worship Space
The Caru Conwy community is situated in a picturesque location that includes a hilltop church overlooking the stunning vistas of Snowdonia and the coast. This unique setting has allowed Eryl to cultivate a worship space that is both inviting and innovative. Rather than relying on a traditional church structure, Eryl and her community have created a space that welcomes individuals seeking spirituality outside conventional settings.
Worship in the Wild
One of the most significant initiatives arising from this community is “Worship in the Wild,” a monthly contemplative walk that invites participants to engage with their faith through nature. This initiative not only encourages a deeper connection with the natural world but also fosters meaningful conversations among participants. Eryl believes that God speaks through companionship and the beauty of creation, offering a different yet profound way to experience worship.
Inclusive Leadership
Eryl’s approach to leadership is inclusive and fluid, allowing for shared responsibilities among community members. She emphasizes the importance of inviting others to take part in leadership roles, which can happen much sooner than in traditional church settings. This model of co-leadership reflects the community’s commitment to fostering growth and engagement, welcoming diverse voices and backgrounds.
Navigating Growth Challenges
The challenge of growth within the community has also been a topic of discussion. Eryl notes that while the current group tends to skew towards older demographics, there is a desire to reach younger families. This evolving landscape requires intentional strategies to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all ages.
A Call to Action
Eryl’s experiences highlight the importance of embodied worship, where faith is lived out through action and connection with the environment. She encourages those who feel a call to start something new to seek out trusted individuals to share their journey with, emphasizing the value of encouragement and support in pursuing one’s calling.
As Caru Conwy continues to flourish, Eryl remains committed to nurturing a space where individuals can explore their faith authentically and meaningfully. The community’s journey is a beautiful reminder of how fresh expressions of faith can take root in the most unexpected places, inviting all to experience the divine in nature.
Resources for Community Building
For more resources related to nurturing communities like Caru Conwy, check out:
Explore more about Caru Conwy and their initiatives, and consider how you might be inspired to start your own community journey.
