BCAN:
An Introduction

Bristol Christian Action Network ('BCAN') is a transdenominational ministry that enables churches and Christian groups respond to various social needs more effectively.

BCAN develops relationships across the historic Christian divides, and helps churches interested in serving their local community to find common ground. BCAN also works to bring together people interested in helping others with organisations that need assistance.

About BCAN

How did BCAN Start?

Around 1996, Sir Fred Catherwood initiated the Christian Action Network ('CAN') movement through the Evangelical Alliance, aiming to set up a CAN in each major town and city around the country.

Bristol EA was one of the first to respond to Sir Fred's challenge, and formed BCAN. By the start of 2002, there were around 35 CANs at varying stages of development.

Who belongs to BCAN?

There is (at present! - but this may change) no formal membership, but BCAN has attracted people to its meetings from a wide range of churches, Christian organisations and projects, belonging to various traditions and denominations. Some of these are members of EA, but many are not.

Where does BCAN operate?

The network currently covers 'greater Bristol' - the city of Bristol and its immediate environs.

Who runs BCAN?

Bristol EA sponsors BCAN, but does not run it. A steering group is drawn from participating churches and organisations, and is responsible for the day-to-day running of the network.

Main Aims

Our Work

Here are some examples of our work to date.

• We have produced a Directory that has been circulated to EA member churches and organisations.
• We have held a series of lunchtime meetings on a variety of Christian action topics, such as the Filwood Hope project, rehabilitation of young offenders, church-based community projects and faith-based welfare.
• We are sponsoring a "Homeless Forum" which brings together Christian and non-Christian agencies, along with Council officers.

Views on BCAN

"There are a lot of Christian groups engaged in social action in Bristol, but we concentrate on addressing the needs we have been set up to meet: BCAN gives us a platform from which to speak as Christians working in the community, and provides a context in which we can meet to support and encourage each other."

"BCAN seems exactly the right body for us to be developing the next stage of Faithworks with."

What Next?

In order to progress the work of BCAN, and take up more of the exciting opportunities currently open to us, we are employing Steve Abbott as a part-time development consultant, initially for six months. Steve will have two primary objectives:

• to explore the viability of establishing - and funding! - a permanent post of BCAN Coordinator; and
• to pilot aspects of the Coordinator's job, to demonstrate the importance and value of this work to the Christian community and beyond.

If there is general support for the establishment of a permanent post, the vacancy will be advertised through the Churches in Bristol. If we go ahead, it is anticipated that the BCAN Coordinator would be responsible for activities such as:

• organising meetings and forums;
• developing relationships with leaders across the city;
• liaising with relevant local, regional and national bodies;
• maintaining contact with the media; and
• researching the interests of BCAN participants.

If you would like to find out more about BCAN, please contact the BCAN Administrator at Müller House, 7 Cotham Park, BRISTOL, BS6 6DA.

The current members of the BCAN steering group are Steve Abbott, Roger Allen, Alan Emery, Paul Hazelden, Andrew Kellett, David Maggs, Julian Marsh, Andy Paget, Julian Perkins, Mark Stonham and Caroline Virgo.