With elections to the Church of England's General Synod approaching, a group known as the Alliance has called for the Church to remain firmly grounded in Scripture and its historic teachings.
The Alliance describes itself as a "network of networks" bringing together people from different traditions within the Church of England. It has released a video presenting its vision for the future and outlining what it believes the Church could contribute to society.
The group rejects the idea that the Church is outdated or that its future should simply involve "managed decline". Instead, it says there is hope through the gospel and the possibility of spiritual renewal.
"We believe that this renewal will only happen if the Church remains rooted in Scripture, standing firm in the doctrines passed down to us by the Saints," the Alliance says in the video.
The group describes the Christian faith as offering a "radical alternative" to aspects of contemporary culture and says it wants the Church to remain focused on Jesus rather than following changing cultural trends.
It also encourages members of the Church to use their influence to support what it describes as the life-changing message of the gospel.
"This is a pivotal time for the Church of England," an Alliance spokesperson said. "The Alliance is a network of networks with a vision for renewal of the whole Church, in our parishes, dioceses, and synods. We invite you to join with us."
The Alliance began taking shape in 2023 and has since become involved in debates over the direction of the Church of England.
One significant area of disagreement concerns the use of Prayers of Love and Faith for same-sex couples. The Alliance has said the Church should retain its traditional teaching on marriage.
In 2024, the group announced plans for what it described as a "temporary de facto parallel province" within the Church of England. Its proposed arrangements include alternative episcopal and spiritual oversight, ways for churches to redirect their financial contributions, and an alternative route towards ordination.
The Alliance is now seeking to bring its vision for renewal to the attention of clergy and other members of the Church as voting for the next General Synod approaches.
Based on reporting by Christian Today UK.
