Countryside Alliance: ‘Time to make churches hub of village again’
Those of us who have been involved in rural community development have known for years that Churches have more than a religious utility in terms of community assets. Looks like the CA have now cottoned on. This article tells us:
An impassioned plea has been issued to put churches at the heart of rural communities to save them from becoming modern day irrelevancies.
The Countryside Alliance has warned churches are in danger of fading away unless they become the thriving hubs they once were.
Executive chairman Sir Barney White-Spunner urged “all faiths” be encouraged to worship “in the same building”, which should also serve a wide variety of non-religious purposes.
Alison Hawes, Devon-based spokesman for the Countryside Alliance, said it made perfect sense.
“I think it is a jolly good idea,” she said.
“We have these buildings and they need upkeep and they need to earn their keep.
“As long as there is nothing too contentious, why not use them for other things.
“I know many rural villages are already used for a variety of purposes, such as concerts and meetings.
“It brings people in through the doors.”