On their way – Graduation 2023

On their way – Graduation 2023

Our 2023 graduation service and celebration was themed on ‘journey’ and packed with creativity.

by Jeremy Woodham,


Our 2023 graduation service and celebration was themed on ‘journey’ and packed with creativity.

Our heartiest congratulations to the 23 CMS Pioneer Mission Training students who graduated on 8 December. We also had the joy of admitting and welcoming 10 pioneer lay workers licensed to work in the Church of England.

As ever, the graduation event was put together by students and staff. This year’s unique event was basd on the theme of journey and featured a map to collect a stamp when you visited each venue on the way to the ‘fireside graduation’.

Art installations and creative spaces linked together aspects of journeying with God: travelling light and letting go, hospitality and community, and prayer and the inner compass that pulls pioneers towards their ‘true north’ of pioneering mission.

There was also time for pioneers to share their stories as part of the gathering, and some of the graduates also spoke about what Pioneer Mission Training had meant to them.

“Being part of CMS gives you permission to see things differently,” said Marcus.

“I found my people!” said Christine. “People who take Jesus’ call to radical Christian living seriously and take risks.”

If you think we might be your people, if you’re looking for training in mission at the edges, then book an open day slot.

Here are some pictures from the day. Congratulations again to all our graduates and welcome to our pioneer lay workers!


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