Near Neighbours and Being Neighbourly
The Church of England is actively discussing with Government plans for a major extension to the pastoral work of parish churches, particularly in multi religious neighbourhoods. These propose a variety of ways in which the recognised strengths of the Church of England can contribute to the flourishing of people in these neighbourhoods. The Church Urban Fund with its 25 years of experience of supporting local communities in deprived urban areas, will oversee the programme.
Communities Secretary Eric Pickles and Baroness Warsi, Minister in
the Cabinet Office, have affirmed the role of the Churches and
Faith communities at the heart of local communities and have spoken
positively of the unique contribution of the Church of England's
20,000 local churches, schools and centres at the heart of every
neighbourhood.
The Church of England's ethos as the national Church is to have a
duty of care for all parishioners irrespective of their religious
belief or none. A consequence of this has been its very substantial
contribution to inter faith initiatives at local, regional and
national levels and with all Faith communities.
The proposals have the strapline "Being Neighbourly" and could
include new support for street and neighbourhood level initiatives;
partnerships with national faith based and inter faith
organisations and work with young adults.
The Church of England believe these proposals could be a
significant affirmation of the contribution of faith communities to
the 'Big Society'.
Eric Pickles said:
"For years, churches and other faith communities have been quietly
making a huge difference day-in and day-out, to every single
neighbourhood in the country - something that has not been
sufficiently recognised by central Government. We can together
build on the huge amount of experience faith groups have in getting
out into the community.
The Church of England's proposals to extend their work with
communities are very interesting and we are looking at them
closely."
