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A Christian presence in every community

Olympics Mobiliser for the Diocese of London

By Elizabeth Harrison, Olympics Mobiliser for the Diocese of London, facilitating parishes and church schools to make the most of opportunities for mission during the Games

I've just started as the Diocese of London's Olympics Mobiliser, helping London churches to make the most of opportunities for mission during the Olympic Games and Paralympics. I've come to Diocesan House from parish ministry, working on Communications and Prayer most recently, and before that, running the Alpha course and helping with community engagement in another parish.

In this new role, I'm hoping to inspire our diverse parishes to think creatively about the opportunities for mission that the Olympics presents. I can facilitate their ideas by sharing resources to use, and by linking them strategically with nearby or similar parishes for support. I love the variety of our diocese; already I've met people from city centre churches who'll be welcoming the thousands coming through St Pancras station, and visited suburban churches planning sports events with an Olympic theme, to provide a great atmosphere for getting to know their community.

With 500 churches and 150 church schools to relate to, it's a big remit, but I'm not working alone. As well as advice from colleagues at LDF, I'll be working closely with More than Gold. They're an ecumenical charity with expertise in organising and resourcing mission around major sporting events. Working with lay-representatives or clergy from each parish, church, or school, they provide training and ideas.

Whether you choose to engage with the 2012 Games by coordinating a community festival, praying for an athlete, promoting environmental sustainability, or even opening your church as an Olympic-free zone to offer some peace and quiet, it's time to start preparing. With all eyes on London next year, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

To find out more about engaging with the Olympics and Paralympics in your parish, contact Elizabeth. Or sign up to receive regular emails to encourage and inspire you, or follow her blog.

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A Christian presence in every community

Olympics Mobiliser for the Diocese of London

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