Living Water: Understanding the Diocese of Norwich’s Vision
The “Living Water: Reflections on our Diocesan Vision” resource serves as an essential theological foundation for the Diocese of Norwich’s vision and mission. Authored by the Reverend Richard Lamey, Director of Mission and Ministry, and the Reverend Dave Lloyd, Mission Development Officer, with an introduction from the Right Reverend Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich, this document provides spiritual guidance for all members of the diocesan community. It invites reflection on how the metaphor of living water connects to the church’s mission in today’s world.
The image of living water runs deeply through biblical narrative, from the creation stories where God’s spirit hovers over the waters to Jesus’s promise of living water to the Samaritan woman at the well. This powerful metaphor represents God’s presence flowing through our communities, bringing life, renewal, and transformation. Just as water is essential for physical life, the diocese recognizes that spiritual nourishment is vital for the health of parishes and individuals alike. The vision acknowledges both the rich heritage of faith in Norfolk and Waveney while embracing the need to respond creatively to contemporary challenges facing the Church and society.
At its heart, the diocesan vision recognizes that authentic Christian community must be both deeply rooted in scripture and tradition while remaining dynamically responsive to the Holy Spirit’s movement today. Like a river that remains consistent in its course yet is never the same water twice, the Church maintains its foundational beliefs while continually adapting its approaches to ministry and outreach. The authors emphasize that this vision isn’t merely an administrative framework but a spiritual calling that invites all members of the diocese—clergy and laity alike—to participate in God’s transformative work in East Anglia and beyond.
The document thoughtfully addresses the tensions between preserving tradition and embracing innovation, suggesting that these need not be opposing forces but complementary aspects of faithful ministry. By drawing on scripture, church history, and contemporary theological insights, Lamey and Lloyd demonstrate how the diocese can honor its Anglican heritage while responding effectively to twenty-first century realities. They acknowledge that meaningful change often involves discomfort but emphasize that the living waters of God’s Spirit provide sustenance and courage for the journey. The vision challenges comfortable assumptions while providing reassurance that God remains present through all seasons of transition.
Particularly compelling is the resource’s emphasis on inclusivity and community engagement. The authors envision a church that, like water, flows beyond traditional boundaries to reach those who might otherwise feel disconnected from religious institutions. This approach recognizes that God is already at work in communities throughout Norfolk and Waveney, inviting the Church to join this divine activity rather than assuming it brings God’s presence where it was previously absent. Such humility shapes a missional approach that listens before speaking, serves before leading, and embraces diversity as a strength rather than a challenge to be overcome.
The conclusion of “Living Water” returns to its primary metaphor with renewed clarity: just as water shapes landscapes over time through persistent, gentle force, so too does God’s love gradually transform individuals and communities through faithful presence and service. The vision is ultimately hopeful, recognizing challenges while refusing to be defined by them. Instead, it calls the entire diocese to move forward with confidence that the same Spirit who hovered over the waters at creation continues to bring life, healing, and renewal today. Through this theological reflection, the Diocese of Norwich articulates not just organizational goals but a spiritual journey to which all are invited—a journey sustained and defined by the living water of God’s unfailing love.
