“Seek the welfare of the city… …and pray to the Lord on its behalf… for in its welfare you will find welfare” Jeremiah 29:7 These words from the ancient writer, Jeremiah have been one of the motivations for us as Link Up, as we have committed time and energy to the work of transformation. Link Up has grown to become a source of encouragement and provides a way of engagement for both local Faith Communities and organisations across the public and Third Sector here in Chester and now right across West Cheshire. The findings from the 2014 audit "Faith in the Community" holds few surprises for those who already have an appreciation of the range of activities undertaken by Faith Groups in West Cheshire. As self-funded and often voluntary groups, Faith Communities and especially the Christian Church contribute to our region in many ways, from increased levels of social inclusion to the conservation of our building heritage. This important survey of the Faith Communities in West Cheshire will, however, surprise a good many, both within the Faith Sector and more widely across the public, private, voluntary and community sectors. It reveals the sheer scale of the contribution of Faith Groups within our local communities and makes it clear that, while media headlines may suggest that faith is in decline, and minority Faith Communities are to be viewed with distrust, the reality is very different indeed. Our Faith Communities are important stakeholders right across the Borough, from urban to rural, from the deprived to the affluent. They have a part to play in encouraging community cohesion, delivering the strategy for economic development and, as the survey powerfully shows, they have to be engaged with as vital and equal partners in our region’s future prosperity and quality of life. It is our hope and prayer that as more people from various sectors engage, this will become a springboard for greater understanding, appreciation, co-operation and partnership. The future welfare and transformation of our region may just depend on it. Click here to see the different ways you can connect with Link Up.