Number of consecrated churches closed in the last decade was lowest level for half a century.

The General Synod has backed the parish as key to the spread of the Christian faith, in a debate where the local church was described as ‘at the very heart’ of God’s mission.

Recommendations outlined following 'bishops and their ministries' diocesan stakeholder consultations 

The Bishop of Bristol, Viv Faull, The Church of England's joint lead on church buildings, has welcomed new legislation clarifying the right of parish and town councils to support parishes 

Oxford Diocese motion commits to further action across the Church including on finances and church buildings.

Awards of nearly £13 million have been made for dioceses to help churches reach more children, young people and families, from toddler groups to apprentice youth ministers, in the latest round of grants for mission from the Church of England.

Details and timescale published

Plans by a diocese to double the number of children and young people in its churches, develop 100 new worshipping communities and renew parishes have been given support in the first round of grants awarded by a new Board set up by the Church of England.

New 12-person board to oversee £350 million of grant funding to support mission and outreach

Apprentice youth workers, youth ministers, children and families workers and chaplaincy aimed at students in further education are to be funded as part of major awards to dioceses announced by the Church of England.