Liturgical rebels

Episode 32 - Exploring Contemplation as Mission with Ian Mobsby

• Christine Sine

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In this conversation, Ian Mobsby shares his transformative journey from a liberal atheist background to embracing the Christian faith. He discusses his involvement in alternative worship and missional communities, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and fostering spiritual journeys. The conversation delves into the rise of contemplative spirituality, highlighting its appeal to both churchgoers and those outside the faith. Ian presents a contemplative approach to mission, focusing on God's work of restoration rather than human manipulation. The cyclical nature of spiritual growth and the transformative power of the contemplative tradition in Christianity is explored. They delve into the concept of being 'spiritual but not religious' and the need for a shift from traditional hierarchical models of church leadership to a more community-oriented approach. 

Takeaways

  • The alternative worship movement provides a space for those disenchanted with traditional church settings.
  • Missional communities focus on building relationships and on spiritual journeys not just attendance.
  • Contemplative spirituality is gaining traction among both churchgoers and those outside the faith.
  • The cyclical nature of spiritual growth involves awakening, purgation, illumination, and union with God.
  • Mission should be seen as God's work of restoration rather than human manipulation.
  • Prayer is about more than making requests.
  • Ian facilitates meditation groups that blend spirituality with community engagement.
  • Contemplative practices can bridge the gap between spirituality and religion.
  • Leadership in the church should focus on being of service rather than using power.
  • The concept of kin-dom emphasizes community over hierarchy.
  • Contemplative practices can foster resilience in chaotic times

Ian Mobsby became a Christian through the alternative worship and emerging church movements in the 1990s from a lefty atheist background and never quite fitted into traditional church. He has over 10 years experience of working as a lay pioneer/missioner, and over 20 years as an ordained missioner/pioneer practitioner. Ian has developed a deep contemplative Christian faith and practice and written a number of books on aspects of contemporary mission and spirituality. He recently completed a research PhD, part exploration of the 'Spiritual But Not Religious', part theological response exploring a particular contemplative model of mission. The most recent book “The Seeking Heart: A Contemplative Approach to Mission and Pioneering was published in January 2025.  

Ian moved to Canada to take up the senior position as the Diocesan Community Missioner working directly to the Bishop of Niagara to develop mission and missional communities. Ian continues his work as a chapter member of the international new monastic Society of the Holy Trinity and as a Trustee of the St Anselm Community in Lambeth Palace. 

Ian can be found at

Find out more about Christine Sine on
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