Charis Communications
Charis Communications (registered charity no. 1119219)[1][3][4] is a UK-based nonprofit organisation established in 2007 to advance Christian faith, education, and community development initiatives. Founded by Hugh Osgood, a Christian minister and academic, the charity focuses on increasing biblical literacy, developing leadership skills, and supporting church-led projects globally[2][5][3].

Overview

Charis Communications operates domestically in six UK regions and internationally, with active partnerships in Nigeria and Uganda[4]. Its core objectives include:

• Advancing Christian faith through training and resource distribution[3].
• Providing education and training, particularly in biblical studies and leadership[2][5].
• Relieving poverty and promoting health, with initiatives such as healthcare support and financial hardship assistance[3][1].

Leadership and History

Hugh Osgood, a PhD holder in Religious Studies (SOAS, University of London) and former dental surgeon, established the charity after transitioning from local church ministry[5]. Key milestones include:

• 2007: Launch of Charis Communications to expand outreach beyond congregational work[5].
• 2015–2022: Osgood served as Free Churches Moderator and President of Churches Together in England, leveraging these roles to promote interdenominational collaboration[5].
• Global partnerships: Collaboration with churches and NGOs on projects ranging from literacy programmes to healthcare access[1][4].

Programmes

The organisation’s activities emphasise:

• Biblical literacy initiatives, including workshops and resource development to deepen scriptural engagement[2][5].
• Leadership training for clergy and lay leaders, aimed at improving project management and community impact[2][3].
• Church-growth strategies, supporting congregations in outreach and social action[2][5].

Governance

Charis Communications operates under a 2007 memorandum of association, prioritising inter-church cooperation and practical ministry[3][5]. Its trustees oversee programmes aligned with its four charitable objects: faith advancement, education, poverty relief, and health promotion[3][1].

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1119219&subid=0 [2] https://www.chariscommunications.org [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/sector-data/top-10-charities/-/charity-details/4031571/governing-document [4] https://ngoexplorer.org/charity/1119219 [5] https://www.hughosgood.com/bio