Christ Church, New Malden is facing more changes than at any other time in its 140 year history.

They include the retirement of the vicar, the Rev Stewart Downey; a gap of many months until his successor is appointed; a radical reorganisation of the church's interior; and a detailed re-appraisal of its mission prompted in part by the fact that ethnic groups now account for 25 per cent of New Malden's population.

The curate, the Rev Stephen Kuhrt, describes it as "creating a 21st century church in a 19th century building."

Physically, he says, this will involve fundamental changes, such as replacing pews with chairs, to make the building a multi-purpose asset that can be used seven days a week.

Spiritually, it will entail careful re-assessment of the church's mission, and how to broaden its reach.

In fact, its reach is broader than most already.

It has long been noted for drawing the highest attendance rate in the Kingston Deanery, and one of the highest in the Southwark Diocese, with around 500 worshippers on Sundays.

But, says Mr Kuhrt, it must do more to engage with relatively "undrawn" groups, such as the poor and ethnic minorities.

"As far as ethnicity is concerned, our aim is to foster an integrated church, rather than one with separate groupings," he said.

With so many weighty matters to consider, Christ Church PCC has organised a United Prayer campaign to be held in sessions on the fourth Saturday of the month from June to December inclusive.

"We hope people will come to these sessions as and when they can, for all or part of the time," said Mr Kuhrt.

"By gathering together in this way we can ensure God is fully involved, and in charge of these important decisions."