Michaela and I are just back from a lovely weekend down south- attending the Tautoko network gathering in Ironbridge, Telford. Our friends and fellow Aoradh members Simon and Helen went down this year which made it all the more special.

Tautoko (apparently a Maori word meaning a group that seeks to support/uplift others) is a network of people who are involved in emerging church/small missional communities/new monastic communities/alternative worship. This is how the network defines itself-

A network of uk based mission practitioners and communities who are restlessly trying to follow Jesus in the midst of a changing contemporary culture.

To share the journey with others who face similar mission challenges.
For mutual friendship, encouragement, solidarity, support, gift giving, discernment, resource sharing, ideas and learning.
To see what emerges as creative people connect.

Ethos:
Open set
Spin free
Generous
Vulnerable
Questioning

What I like about the network, is that it does not make unreasonable demands on already busy people, or take itself too seriously. It is rather disorganised (although there are moves afoot to bring a little more organisation) and characterised by friendship.

Because of our rather isolated location, the chance to meet up with others and share ideas, hopes and stories is always a real delight. It was great to see some familiar faces, and some meet others for the first time.

I will post a few thoughts relating to conversations later.

Thanks to Jonny, Naz, Gareth and Mark who put effort into the planning and leadership this year!

Some photies-