Churches across the Diocese of London are being invited to take part in Sacred Conversations: Becoming a Listening Church, the diocesan Lent Journey for 2027.
Produced in partnership with the London Centre for Spiritual Direction and hosted by the bishops of the Diocese of London, the course invites individuals, small groups and whole congregations into a shared journey of discipleship shaped by the practice of listening: listening to God, listening to one another and listening to the communities around us.
With Lent falling earlier than usual in 2027, churches are being encouraged to begin planning now.
Growing Impact Across the Diocese
Over the past four years, the diocesan Lent Journey has grown significantly in reach and impact. Around one in four churches across the Diocese now engage with the annual offering, while around one in ten make it their main focus for Lent.
One of the strongest themes to emerge from participant feedback is the value of journeying together. While many people appreciate engaging with the resources individually, those who take part as a church or small group consistently report a richer experience and deeper growth in discipleship.
For that reason, churches are being encouraged to consider hosting a group during Lent 2027 and inviting others to share the experience together.
Easy to Use in Any Church Context
The resources have been designed to be accessible for churches of different traditions, sizes and contexts.
Each week includes a live online session, wondering questions and simple communal practices that help participants put listening into practice together. Whether a church is new to diocesan Lent resources or has participated before, the course offers a practical framework for fostering spiritual growth and shared reflection.
Launch Events This November
To help clergy and lay leaders explore the resources and prepare for Lent, two identical launch and information sessions will be held in November:
Wednesday 4 November 2026, 7pm
Thursday 5 November 2026, 11am
Participants will have the opportunity to hear more about the vision behind Sacred Conversations, experience some of the listening practices included in the course, explore the resources and discover ideas for using them in church life.
There will also be time to ask questions and consider how the Lent Journey could be hosted locally.
An Invitation to Journey Together
As more churches discover the value of taking part together, it is our hope that even more congregations will join the shared journey in 2027.
Whether your church has engaged with previous Lent Journeys or is considering taking part for the first time, Sacred Conversations: Becoming a Listening Church offers an opportunity to deepen discipleship, strengthen community and explore what it means to become a listening church.
Further information, promotional materials and registration for the launch events are available at lent2027.wayoflife.london. Printed copies of the promotional flyer are also available on request.
Lent comes early next year. Get sorted now, and begin planning your church’s journey today.