An article in FE Week last week by the National Secular Society rather bizarrely tried to argue that this was part of some secret plan.
On the contrary, we are unapologetic about seeking to engage with and serve a new generation, as this is what we have always done.
Suggestions that spiritual guidance and support offered by chaplaincies is either unwanted or a niche provision also miss the mark.
A recent ComRes poll showed that almost half of adults (44 per cent) say they pray. And one in four people pray regularly (at least once a month) ΜΆ a number that has increased six percentage points since a pre-pandemic survey.
Positive responses are even higher in the 18-to-34 age group, with 30 per cent saying they pray regularly, and 34 per cent having watched a broadcast religious service during the pandemic.
By this measure, the idea that faith has no place in modern society is decidedly pre-pandemic in its worldview, especially among younger age groups.
'The Church of England wants to serve a new generation, as we have always done' @nigelgenders writes in @FEWeek https://t.co/TJHlaO0DEG
— Church of England in Parliament (@churchstate) July 2, 2021