What we do

FiWM is rooted in practical inter-cultural encounters and training with partners in the UK and overseas. We believe that face-to-face, unguarded encounters are a vital element in nurturing and supporting solidarity and a more global understanding of Christian discipleship and mission. We work closely with the World Church Relations Team, theological colleges and courses in the UK, and ecumenical partners around the world. FiWM has its roots in the 1998 Methodist Conference, which allocated funds from the Methodist Fund for World Mission (FWM), to encourage and resource multi-dimensional theological education and mission training for service in a complex, globalized world. At a time of rapid and dynamic changes in church and society, confronted by the intense and urgent demands of this era, FiWM promotes and inspires innovative and creative training to engage some of the major challenges and opportunities we face.

And how we do it

• FiWM works with students training for ordained or lay ministries, whose learning involves an overseas dimension.
• FiWM advises on grant applications from individuals and groups planning overseas visits with well-defined learning objectives and clear mutual benefit, as part of continuing training in and practice of innovative inter-cultural mission.
• FiWM researches and organizes intensive placement programmes in consultation with the Methodist World Church Office (WCO) and theological colleges.
• FiWM delivers briefing, de-briefing and discernment programmes for people travelling to learn in order to better act.
• FiWM conducts research into best practice for exchange programmes and inter-cultural formation.
• FiWM continues to stimulate and challenge the church in a variety of ways to engage with some of the demands and complexities of our common life.
• FiWM works in partnership with the Selly Oak Centre for Mission Studies (SOCMS) at the Queen’s Foundation.

All these activities and initiatives are underpinned by and extend the meaning of the Priorities for The Methodist Church.