Justin Welby: separation of church and state not a disaster
by Harriet Sherwood, Guardian:
Justin Welby, the archbishop of Canterbury, has said disestablishment of the Church of England would not be a disaster, and removal of the church’s privileges should be “a decision for parliament and people”.
In an interview with the Guardian ahead of the royal wedding, Welby acknowledged that disestablishment – separating church and state, and removing the C of E’s official status – would be a “complicated process”.
“Would disestablishment be a disaster? No,” he said, adding: “Nothing’s a disaster with God.”
As the leader of England’s established, or state, church, Welby will take Prince Harry and Meghan Markle through their marriage vows at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle on Saturday. The archbishop also officiates at state occasions, including the coronation of the monarch.
Some critics say it is inappropriate in an increasingly multi-faith and secular society to accord special status to one church or faith over others. For example, 26 seats in the House of Lords are reserved for Anglican bishops; the only other country to include clerics by right in its legislature is Iran.
Related Posts
Tags
Share This
