Campaigning for a Church of England for All
A new organisation is being formed to campaign for a Church of England for all. Together for the Church of England (“Together” for short) has a vision of our national church being truly available for everyone. Our main objectives are:
- To unite those seeking to remove all discrimination in the Church of England, especially where it is embodied in the formal and legal structures of the Church.
- To work for a Church of England in which people of differing convictions live together in unity.
The main focus of our work towards these objectives at the present time are in the area of sexuality, particularly through the Living in Love and Faith process and the decision by the House of Bishops to allow services of blessing for same-sex couples and also bring in new guidance that allows ordinands and clergy to enter same-sex marriage without restriction. This initial focus reflects the significant amount time and energy currently required to deliver change through the LLF process. We will also support measures in the life of the church around racial justice, gender equality, disability access, gender identity and more. Our work programme will adjust over time according to the needs and agenda within the church, so while sexuality is a central issue right now it is not the only issue that Together will campaign on.
Who is behind Together?
Together has been formed by members of General Synod who are aware of the need to organise for greater equality and inclusion in the life of the church. This has been in consultation with organisations such as MoSAIC, Inclusive Church, WATCH (Women and the Church) and The Campaign for Equal Marriage in the Church of England. We are drawn from different traditions within the church, but all share a belief that God calls us as we are to sit at his table. MoSAIC have decided to become a part of the new Together structures, giving us a head start with our setup and diocesan contacts.
How will Together operate?
We are seeking to develop diocesan based networks of Christians, both clergy and lay, who also share these aims. These networks can support one another in local campaigning, work to ensure strong representation in the governance structures of the Church of England, and be a voice in their diocese for greater equality. We are also aware that there are many inclusive minded Christians who would appreciate being in touch with others in their area. Forming those connections is something that a diocesan network could help with. The diocesan network will be supported centrally by the national team.
Together already has a significant presence on the General Synod through elected members who share the aims of tackling discrimination. Integrating this presence on General Synod with diocesan networks will make a significant difference to how equality and inclusion can be promoted in the church.
What is happening now?
It is early days for Together, and we are working hard behind the scenes to register as a CIO (Charitable Incorporated Organisation), set up bank accounts, form a network of diocesan contacts and more. We hope to be up and running soon, so bear with us while the important foundations are put in place.
What can I do?
If you want to be on the mailing list for Together and receive regular updates please email us at:
You can also get in touch with your local diocesan contact. If we don’t have someone in place for your diocese yet please contact us so we can talk through the situation in your diocese.
We will also need funding to ensure Together is able to operate sustainably into the future, so once our bank account is set up we will be passing on details for anyone who wishes to either make a one off donation or commit to regular giving. If this is something you would be interested in doing please let us know through by emailing contact@togethercofe.org.uk.
Finally, pray for the work of Together and those involved in setting up this new organisation. Pray that we will help to open wide the doors of the church so that all may come in, and pray that all who participate in the life of the church may do so fully and with complete acceptance.
“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” – Colossians 1:17
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