The report Mission-Shaped Church has come at a moment of great opportunity for the church. But whether or not it makes any difference will depend on whether it is used as a tool for laying a foundation or as a decorative flagpole.

Drawing on a wide range of reflection and resources, Paul Bayes shows how it might be used in the first place to shape our values (before altering our structures) and how this can set us free from both anxiety and defensiveness as we seek to be open to the missionary work of God.

Revd Paul Bayes works for the Archbishops' Council of the Church of England as National Mission and Evangelism Adviser. Previously he ministered in parishes and university chaplaincy, most recently in the Totton Team, Southampton, where he was involved in parallel cell church planting. His current job includes following up the recommendations of Mission-Shaped Church.