News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

Welby-Lambeth-Main_article_image.jpg
UK News

Government "struggling" with extremism, says Archbishop of Canterbury

by Desmond Busteed

Most Revd Justin Welby was addressing a gathering of inter-religious and community leaders on Tuesday evening at Lambeth Palace, where he said New Labour had also failed to come to terms with what he described as the "new issue" which comes out of society's "diversity".

Archbishop Justin appeared to suggest the pressures of modern day politics were to blame, which he said involved making "incredibly difficult decisions with too few resources, too little information and too much hurry."

However, he also praised the UK's politicians, saying they were "doing the best can" in "incredibly difficult situations" and questioned whether religious leaders from all faiths were doing enough to combat extremism.

"As the faith communities, what are we doing that provide a narrative about purpose in life and commitment to society, and benefits of a purposeful flourishing life that is so exciting that the evil temptations offered by extremists groups of all cultures and types anywhere in the world, including this country simply pale into insignificance?

"And that's a challenge for us, and let's get our house in order and then question the politicians more."

Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, who was as the event, appeared sanguine over the Archbishops remarks. He said: "Good for him, I think the Church should be critical, I think the Church should have views because the Church should be strong, I've got no problem with that."

The Church of England recently said the UK needed a "fresh moral vision" ahead of the general election.

In a letter urging congregations to vote on 7 May, the House of Bishops said it did not endorse a political party but encouraged debate on issues such as nuclear defence and the economy.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate