Interview: Archbishop’s report “indifferent to the welfare of children”

Mar 30, 2024 by Jill

by Tony Rucinski, Coalition for Marriage:

Revd Dr Ian Paul joins me to discuss the marriage-related outcomes of the Church of England’s recent Synod. His perspective offers a critical lens on these debates, particularly their impact on the understanding of marriage within the Church. You can listen to Ian’s insights here.

The Living in Love and Faith discussion, aimed at exploring the Church’s stance on same-sex relationships, was a central topic. Ian expresses significant concern, stating, “we’re in a bit of a mess here”. He highlights the tension between the Church’s established doctrine—that marriage is “a lifelong union between one man and one woman”—and proposals that endorse a departure from this view. His frustration at the resulting “absolute crisis of confidence” is palpable as he discusses the complexities, contradictions and lack of coherence inherent in the debate.

The Families and Households report, commissioned by Archbishop Justin Welby, also came under scrutiny for its failure to underline the importance of traditional marriage as the cornerstone of family life. Ian’s disappointment was evident as he criticised the report’s approach, which seemed to disregard the well-documented benefits of children being raised by their married biological parents. “We are deciding to be indifferent to the welfare of children”, he remarks, summarising his dismay at the report’s omission.

Read here