Top positive review
4.0 out of 5 starsWhy is Welby so political?
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 8 June 2018
Why is the Archbishop of Canterbury so political, asked a friend, concerned that the CofE seemed to enjoy giving its solutions to the country's ills. Yet Christianity is political. It has something important to say to today's politicians and voters. In this book, Welby sums up what that 'something' might be.
The Archbishop calls for a 're imagining' of Britain as a nation. What's our story, our meta-narrative, what is it that drives our national and local life? He sets out family, education, health (especially mental health), housing (with community), economics and finance, as the building blocks of a healthy society.
A key strand of Welby's manifesto is the vital role of local, intermediate organisations such as churches and other faith groups, clubs and charities. These are essential for our living well at a local level and should be nurtured and encouraged, and adequately resourced by central government. Similarly, the lower levels of government at parish and district level should have powers and finance devolved to them so that they can effectively serve the people in their areas.
Parish churches,with clergy who know their areas well, can play a key part in revitalising our nation.
A good read, with much ground covered. A detailed, comprehensive 'political' manifesto for a reimagined Britain, at ease with itself, being hospitable and a beacon of hope in an uncertain world.
Food for thought for anyone with influence at any level in society.
