West Cornwall Methodism Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: A Missional Ecclesiology

Abstract

The thesis considers a missional ecclesiology, arising out of and applicable to the experience of Methodism in West Cornwall. It is important therefore to take a historical overview of West Cornwall Methodists, believing that the problems and opportunities of today in areas of mission and ministry can be traced though that history. And as against a superficial reading, the purpose is not merely negative. In fact, the conclusion is one of cautious optimism, to seek and find a positive future. Each of the history chapters will demonstrate the evolution of various factors that constitute that which makes West Cornish Methodism what it is today. It will be demonstrated that it has been moulded by certain unique facets including the Cornish personality of independence and tenacity, furthered by geographical remoteness. Added to this there were dangerous industries such as mining and fishing, and the decline of an indigenous people that held, at least formerly, strong religious beliefs.
The latter chapters will focus on how national Methodism by its pervading inflexible structures has been a mixed blessing leading to perceived tensions in the practice of the local churches. Conference initiatives, taken in areas of considerable concern, coupled to long-term numerical decline have led to insecurity and hesitancy as to the future. The fundamental reason for the last four chapters is that they will demonstrate how the previously discussed historical context shapes the here and now and indeed the future. In seeking a positive future, theological concepts such as Missio Dei and Volkstum will be defined and discussed as a basis for further mission. For this there will be a need for the local churches to prepare themselves for a positive role in the communities of which they are a part.