'Mixed Economy' in the Church

A couple of things I have always admired about the Church of England.

Firstly, its sheer ability to survive, considering the amount of controversies and challenges it has faced over the centuries.

Secondly, the broad beast that it is, allows for new initiatives such as Fresh Expressions to be pioneered alongside traditional churchmanships. It is now joined by the Methodists, URC and Sally Army amongst others. This is something that the Archbishop of Canterbury has called a 'mixed economy'.

To that end, there is a great article in The Times illustrating some of this 'fresh thinking'.

Bishop Graham Cray writes:

“It is clear that something very substantial has happened...Episcopal leadership is saying ‘Go for it, it’s a good thing’. The old churchwardens’ mantra, whenever a vicar suggested something new, of ‘the bishop won’t allow it’ has gone. Now the bishop would be very disappointed if you didn’t try it.”

Good stuff, Graham. Thanks for inspiring us with the stories.

ASD