The State of the Church and the Church of the State

Does the Church of England have anything to say in our ‘Big Society’?

What is the real England and what do we want it to be?

In this provocative book, two leading clergymen share their vision for a new society, and a radical reshaping of the Church of England.

Despite the rise of secularism, the Church still has an important role in discussions on the ethics of technological and scientific developments, gender issues and sexual ethics, education, Establishment and economics. The tents on the steps of St Paul’s show that the Church is still a vital player in the political life of the country.

Michael Turnbull and Donald McFadyen claim that the Church of England can become the nation’s heartbeat once again, but significant changes to its vision and organisation are needed. In looking at the position that the church once held, and what its role might be in the future, they explain to a new generation the potential of the Church of England in English society, and show that, in revitalising its purpose, it can create a godly ‘Big Society’ where people can flourish as part of a global and local community.