Signs of growth in the Church of England
Growth in the Church of England may be modest, with a 0.6 per cent rise from 2023-2024, but the trend is up and clergy took the opportunity to share their stories at a one day conference in London, organised by the Church Times. The day was framed against the backdrop of the “Quiet Revival” theory, resulting from a Bible Society / YouGov survey suggesting rapid church growth. The CofE figures do not bear this out and there was concern that the CofE was missing out. The Rev David Goodhew, church statistician of many years standing, said the survey was “on to something”, but more research was needed. There were wide regional variations in CofE church growth, and high levels in other churches such as the Pentecostals, but evidence showed “there is a fair bit of life in the CofE”. Clergy described small parishes growing into communities through pastoral care, new church plants emerging through well financed HTB mission projects, young men new to the church inspired by TikTok influencers, an interest in theology and thirst for knowledge among young men in particular, and more interest in sacraments – such as baptism. There was general agreement that parishes know best how to grow and should be given resources to do so. The Church Times will publish a recording of the conference later.
Quiet Revival author defends church growth claims amid mounting polling doubts
One of the authors of the Quiet Revival, Dr Rob Barward-Symmons, spoke at the conference about the report, which suggested a 56 per cent rise in church attendance between 2018 and 2024, including an increase from four to 16 per cent among young men. It was from a YouGov opt-in survey, but its findings run counter to random selection polling showing continuing decline in Christian affiliation and practice. Last week, Pew Research and top social scientists at the Policy Institute at King’s College London, questioned its reliability. And new British Social Attitudes 2024 survey data, published by Humanists UK, showed “a decline in regular church going across all age groups, including Gen Z who are the lowest attenders of all generations”. Prof Sir John Curtice had suggested the Bible Society commission another survey to see if the result is replicated. But at the Church Times conference, Dr Rob Barward-Symmons rejected this idea, as he said the original was from a credible source, and “this stat for the benefit of our sceptics is not really our primary interest”. He said the Bible Society/YouGov survey: “Doesn’t test against the British Social Attitudes Survey, but that is the nature of data collection. There is no single perfect source….For me, I’m more confident than I was in the overall story”.
Call to drop charges against journalists covering Minnesota church protest
The executive director of the International Press Institute, Scott Griffen, has condemned the arrest of two journalists who reported on the anti-ICE protests at Cities Church in Minnesota on 18 January. Protesters came into the church shouting and chanting and disrupted the service for 20 minutes. Former CNN anchor Don Lemon interviewed the pastor in the church while the protest took place, on a live stream, and Georgia Fort, an independent journalist, also reported on the protest. Mr Griffen is quoted saying: “The outcome of this case will have direct consequences for the future of free media and free information in America. IPI condemns the Trump administration’s attempts to criminalize journalism and calls for the immediate release of both journalists with all charges dropped.” Guardian report here. RNS report here
Faith leaders urge government to abandon attempt to find new definition of Islamophobia
Muslim, Sikh, Hindu and Christian leaders have signed a letter urging the government to abandon its attempts to find a new definition of Islamophobia. The letter has been sent to the Communities Secretary Steve Reed, whose department set up a working group to come up with a new definition, aiming to help tackle anti-Muslim hatred and discrimination. The present wording “Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness”, has drawn criticism because of its reference to racism. The report says the letter has been signed by Fiyaz Mughal, founder of Tell Mama, Lord Singh from the Network of Sikh Organisations, Tim Dieppe from Christian Concern, and the Hindu Council UK. They say a draft definition could curb freedom of speech, limiting discussion around issues such as halal slaughter, face coverings or gender segregation. The Department says the definition is still being considered and they will not consider wording which would stifle free speech. Times story here Telegraph story here
New organisation aims to counter view that ‘death is annihilation’
A new global organisation “The Galileo Commission – Death is not the End” was launched this weekend, to bring together academics, scientists and practitioners, to share their research on the continuity of consciousness after death. Its leader and co-founder is David Lorimer, who is a former director of the UK’s Scientific and Medical Network, which bridges science, medicine, and spirituality. At the online launch, speakers from across the world spoke about their knowledge of near death and shared end of life experiences, after death communication, re-incarnation and soul-midwifery. David Lorimer said “the prevailing morbid notions of death as oblivion and annihilation need to be urgently re-evaluated. We aim to change attitudes by de-mystifying death and redefining it not as an end but the beginning of a new journey and adventure”. He suggested that “by focusing on these spiritual principles, particularly love, wisdom and truth”, a new culture based on these foundations, may be possible. The website has information, research and films from authors in this field. Further online and in person events are planned »
Churches opposing same-sex blessings divert £10m through alternative fund
The Church Times reports that almost £10 million was given to the “Ephesian Fund” in 2025, set up to allow churches opposed to same sex blessings to give money to the fund instead of to their local diocese. The Ephesians Fund then passes that money on to the relevant diocese, but only for the use of churches opposed to same sex blessings. One vicar is quoted saying they wanted to “safeguard the integrity of the people who give towards our church.” Another said it allowed people to remain in the Church of England in good conscience. Church Times article here >>
Pope calls for dialogue between Cuba and the US
Pope Leo XIV has expressed “great concern” over tension between Cuba and the United States, and called for “sincere and effective dialogue” amid rising tensions between Cuba and the United States. Speaking at the Angelus on Sunday, he said he joined the Cuban Bishops in urging leaders to “promote sincere and effective dialogue, to avoid violence and any action that could increase the suffering of the beloved Cuban people”. His appeal followed a statement from the Cuban bishops issued on Saturday, who warned of worsening economic and humanitarian conditions and the risk of social unrest, citing cuts to oil supplies linked to US sanctions. They called for urgent change without further anguish, urging dialogue, diplomacy and “healthy plurality” within Cuban society, and hoped for a “prosperous and happy Cuba”. Vatican News story here
The Jewish renaissance of Margate
A report in the Jewish Chronicle charts the growth of the Jewish community in the seaside town of Margate, with artists and musicians settling in an area already a firm favourite holiday destination for British Jews. Lianne Kolirin reports on the community’s history there – once home to Sir Moses Montefiore, the financier and philanthropist. There are new businesses, a kosher hotel, art collectives in a community venue and young families moving into the area, strengthening the community in local synagogues. The article is here
Three reasons to celebrate
Today is Candlemas, concluding the season of Epiphany coming 40 days after Christmas. It marks the presentation of Jesus in the Temple and is celebrated in churches with the blessing of candles. Yesterday was St Brigid’s Day, honouring the intertwined stories of an Irish saint and a Celtic goddess. She is associated with the beginning of spring, poetry, healing, fire, metalwork and the celebration of women and female strength. Last night, there was a full moon, a moment when the veil between worlds feels thinner, a time for reflection and the honouring of nature.
