Ecumenical structures in counties and cities

Uniquely in England at 'county' level the Churches have established ecumenical instruments to serve, support and encourage local ecumenism.

These 'county bodies', or more accurately, Intermediate Bodies, usually have an ecumenically appointed development officer who is best placed to offer practical help. Click here for a list.

Resources for Intermediate Bodies

• This Growing Unity is a handbook on ecumenical evelopment in the counties, large cities and new towns of England. Rather dated now, it is nevertheless still very useful. The full text is being re-written, but in the meantime you can download it here.
  
  
• Between the Local and the National is a health check for Intermediate Bodies. If you think you might need a full review, click here for helpful resources and the results of other IB reviews.
  
  
• Church Leaders in each Intermediate Body area meet together for mutual support and collaboration. These meetings are normally faciliated by the County Ecumenical Development Officer. Many Church Leaders sign personal covenants.
  
  
• Boring but perhaps necessary, most Intermediate Bodies have constitutions. Click here to see them and some helpful comments for those creating or revising them.
  
  
• Churches have a particular responsibility to manage their affairs well. Click for a sample Intermediate Body Health and Safety Policy and for information about employing an ecumenical officer.
  
  
• Ecumenical Officers meet for support and encouragement at regional level. Click for an overview and for information about the Darlington meeting. 
   
  
• Some Intermediate Bodies are engaged in New Housing Areas and helping the Churches respond to Civil Emergencies.
  
  
• In 2011 a Review of Intermediate Ecumenical Life was published.