Congregational Support

What is the London District?

Formed in 1924 from the amalgamation of two older organisations, the District of London and the South East Provincial Assembly (LDPA) covers the metropolitan area of London plus the counties of Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hertfordshire, Essex and Berkshire, in which there is a total of 27 congregations and fellowships.  Those congregations and fellowships voluntarily belong to the District and derive benefit from their association.  The District has no authority to instruct or direct its constituent congregations, which each are self-governing, but it exists to provide practical and financial support, to organise programmes of mutual interest, to administer funds and to act in ways which foster mutual benefit.

The District organises quarterly meetings, usually held on the third Saturday of January, March, June and October, at which there is communal worship and a programme of spiritual, theological or practical interest.  Quarterly Meetings are hosted by different congregations within the District.  There are other programmes - Courses in Congregational Leadership, Affinity Groups for those who share particular interests - at present there are groups for liberal Christians, two youth groups, a group for young urban Unitarians, groups for ministers and congregational leaders, and a theatre group.  The District publishes a quarterly magazine, IMPULSE, a monthly eBulletin and a Directory.

The District has a District Minister, Rev. Dr. David Usher, who is primarily responsible for the development of programmes, and a Council of twelve people, elected annually, who meet six times a year.

The District's Goals

In 2008, the District formally adopted six goals for the next five years.  Those goals are:

1.  Trained leadership in all congregations.  Some congregations and fellowships enjoy professional ministry and some have accredited Lay Leaders.  However, others have no trained leadership and rely on the volunteer efforts of its own membes.  The District is working to ensure that all congregations have people who are trained in the skills of congregational leadership.

2. The Formation of ten Affinity Groups.  These are groups which bring together people from different congregations who have a common interest.

3.  Strong internal communications.  With such a large geographical area, it is important that each congregation be kept in touch with what is happening beyond their own immediate sphere.  The District assists this through regular meetings and publications.

4.  A visible and pro-active media profile.  Unitarians shy away from proselytising, but we do need to let the world know of our existence.

5.  A Retreat Centre in the District.  The national Unitarian Conference Centre is in Derbyshire, and while it is much-loved by many in the south-east, it is a long way to go, particularly for a weekend.  So the District is looking for somewhere more local for its conferences and retreats.

6.  50% increased membership.  Those of us who already are Unitarians believe we have something precious which others would want to know about.  We want to share who we are and what we offer.  Being mindful of and welcoming to newcomers ensures that we do not become insular.