Welcome to SUTTONfx
SUTTONfx began in 2021 as a lay-led Christian initiative inspired by the Anglican Marks of Mission and driven by a passion for strengthening connections within our community. These Marks of Mission—proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom, teaching and nurturing disciples, responding to human needs in loving service, transforming unjust structures of society, and safeguarding the integrity of creation—are at the heart of everything we do.
We put this into action through meaningful projects like supporting the Dr George Rice Community Garden. This project is reclaiming once-abandoned land to create an inclusive, accessible pocket garden for children and young adults with Special Educational Needs (SEN), helping them gain new skills. Our Chatty Café offers a warm and welcoming space for residents to connect and combat social isolation. We also assemble Care Leaver Kits to support young people transitioning to independence.
The Marks of Mission provide SUTTONfx with a distinct theological framework for our community engagement. This framework emphasizes service, discipleship, and social justice, setting SUTTONfx apart from purely secular community organizations.
We'd like to invite you to learn more about our work and consider getting involved.
Towards a fresh expression of Church
We are looking to find new ways of being Church and gathering a new worshipping community that draws its members from the unchurched and de-churched.
FAQs
What is a Fresh Expression?
A Fresh Expression is a new form of church. It is a new type of being a Christian community that emerges within contemporary culture and engages primarily with those who don’t "go to church".
If a Fresh Expression emerges in Sutton it will come into being through the principles of listening, loving service, community development. It will lead people to Christ and make disciples and become a mature expression of church fitted for its cultural context.
Where does it operate?
This is a project focusing on Sutton Deanery.
Our Ground Rules:
We Partner: This work is a collaborative effort with those who want to develop fresh expressions of church in Sutton.
Intentional Work: We will always clearly communicate our purpose.
Active Research: We actively engage in research and are prepared to attract people who want to help and develop the local expression.
Prayer & Discernment: We are prayer-led. Our work springs from listening to God in prayer.
Transparency for Ministers: We will always be transparent with fellow ministers and provide clear updates about the work.
Sharing with Local Churches: We will make all reports and actions available to local churches.
Existing Services: We will signpost existing congregations and services offered by local churches.
Respecting Parish Work: We will avoid any activities that might conflict with existing parish ministries and projects, especially on Sundays or festivals.
Who is the contact for the project?
Jeff Richards, Licensed Lay Minister, jeff@suttonfx.com
Jeff reports to the Archdeacon of Reigate, The Venerable Moira Astin.