By James Critchley (Glasshouses, Upper Nidderdale)

style A New Horizon for the Church of England

The Church of England has made some remarkable and most welcome progress over recent years. The recognition that it is theologically legitimate to interpret the bible within the context and era of when it was written has allowed the church to move forward and to rediscover the underlying philosophy about true love and understanding. That the Church is now able to move on from previously held bigoted views about women, homosexuality and divorcees has given it a new legitimacy amongst both the faithful and secular.

It is within this context of greater understanding and its place in the modern world that the Church has promised to act about arguably the greatest threat ever to face mankind. Climate change is no longer the preserve of scientists but an ever present reality in all our lives.

The Church of England has produced a document called 'Shrinking the Footprint' and it commits the church to a carbon reduction target of 42% by 2020 and of 80% by 2050.

The Archbishop of Canterbury is quoted as saying that 'The present challenges of environment and economy, of human development and global poverty, can only be faced with Christ liberated courage'. The Bishop of London adds that 'In the twenty first century in an interconnected world, practicing love of neighbours means that we are committed to mitigate the effects of climate change that will fall disproportionately on the poor and vulnerable of the world'.

If we are to achieve the targets advocated in the 'Shrinking the Footprint' document then we will need a lot of 'Christ liberated courage’. If we wish to preserve this fragile environment for future generations then we really have no option but to act now.

Do we really need 16,000 churches for our fast diminishing congregations? We, who have so much, could easily achieve the Church of England targets, if we were to recognise that we have far too many church buildings for our needs. We could release buildings for much needed social and affordable housing (saving green belt land) and at the same time develop further ecumenical links with other denominations.

There is much further information to be had from the excellent Church of England web site 'Shrinking the Footprint' and we have Jemima Parker (01423 569121 ) our very own Diocesan Environment Officer who is available to give much needed guidance and support.