Significant changes in the way the church is organised are among a number of developments. St Heliers Church and Community Centre have undertaken in order to support its outreaching and welcoming focus.

The new Executive Committee of seven people representing the diversity of the church's life and activity are responsible for processing and planning the church's business.

Executive Committee member Ruth Hill with husband Peter and young son Nathan began attending St Heliers church about 12 months ago.

"St Heliers achieves a real connection with people through its children's church." says Ruth. "Parents who would otherwise find rising on Sunday morning impossible are dragged up by their little people, "Are we going to my Sunday School today?" they ask. The commonality of parenting kids of a similar age helps parents establish rapport with each other - the kids provide the motivation to keep on coming!"

"St Heliers gave us a real sense of welcome in its weekly invitation to "Turn to someone you don't know and greet them. Many of the people we met in our first few weeks were obviously interested in getting to know us, and remembered us from one week to the next" says Ruth.

Child and Family worker Jill Kayser adds that "the whole church's outreach appealed to me because it's inclusive and embracing which is what I think Christianity should be. I also believe that my skills and gifts can be used to provide a partnership in its witness. I think this church shows a genuine expression of outreach and acceptance of all people. I like the church's commitment to innovation, and I think its broad minded and creative approach to mission and outreach draws people in."