Bob, Sacramento, USA --- Well said!!!

John, Placentia, Republic of California

Some of the comments made in relation to this article tend to prove the point made by the CoE.

Like or not, Christianity has been irrefutably fundemental in shaping modern Britain. All that is good about this country stems from this inalienable history.

Simon , Birmingham, England

if the church want more of a say in politcs then why don't they run as a political party and try and get some members elected to the house, then and only then should they have input into the desicions made in parliment,

keith, chester,

religious people are happy to be called sheep but try to argue that they are capable of independent thought!

the only individual thought i can see is in the hypocritical pick'n'mix of what one chooses to follow in any given religion these days.
everyone can be morally aware, not just believers.

jenny, edinburgh,

Why is the church so special?

N Labour has betrayed us all

Jim, Burnley,

its about time christians (not just just C of E) should act & speak as shepards guarding their flock against the wolves (the government etc) NOT as lambs to the slaughter!!!! C of E keep going!!!!

gt, wilmslow, uk

religion was invented by man, written by man and is still implemented by man. we have the right to choose religion or not and those who choose not should not have to be governed by religious ideals. it is a personal preference and should not be imposed on anyone else. we need secular government.

jenny, edinburgh,

Social progress and justice in Western democracies has often been achieved by those in direct oppostion to the Church. e.g. Universal suffrage, family planning, abolition of slavery, workers' right , the fight against fascism. The Vatican has just gotten round to pardonning Galileo.

Shirley, London,

The real betrayal took place in the 16th century. Now those countries that were once Catholic have it all coming to them.

Self-inflicted wounds it's called in the military.

Benedict Carter, Moscow, Russia

The peace and prosperity enjoyed by the West for the past 900 years is a debt owed to Christianity. Liberal secularism will be the fall of the West. It's usually only Rome was speaking out against this. It's reassuring to see the the Church of England acknowledging the stakes.

Bob, Sacramento, USA

Why are governments catering to Islam? Are they ignorant of the fact that the Koran commands people to kill those who do not agree with their religion? Muslims want to rule the world and it appears that governments are more than willing to assist them. This is frightening!

James, Memphis, USA

The Defender of the Faith forgot which faith she was supposed to defend.

Isn't that a dereliction of duty?

Jack, Burnaby, Canada

Talk about the pot calling the kettle black! Isn't the Church of England as guilty as Labour for discriminating against other religious entities? How many times have Catholic leaders asked that the Act of Settlement -- which favors the Church of England/ Protestants -- be dropped, to no avail? Sad!

William, Easton,

We couldn't display a poster in our local library advertising a Carol Service in case it offended anyone. However that same library played host to a Muslim discussion group. Such discrimination happens more than most people would notice. Just because I am white does not mean my faith is less valid.

K Hammond, London, UK

If Blair and Brown are "guilty" of anything, it is to keep all religion out of politics. The fact is that (white) Christians in Britain do not go to church; only the catholic churches are attracting increasing numbers due to the influx of (white) eastern Europeans.

sonny, london,

We do not live in a secular society, we live in a democracy and, as such, those with faith have just as much right to representation in government as those that do not.

Richard, London,

Is it not remarkable that the self same Tony Blair who presided over multiculturalism, the liberal agenda, and anything "Christian" being allowed to interfere with the secularists' agenda in the UK now warns that it is the secular UK (and Europe) which is out of step with the rest of the world?

Alan, Glasgow,

What has failed in not the government - although they are certainly not beyond criticism in other areas - but the leadership of the C of E. Williams must be the most ineffectual Archbishop of Canterbury in decades. How about the Church making a statement as to what it actually believes in ?

david, Ligneyrac, France

ALL GODS ARE FANTASIES CREATED BY PEOPLE FOR THE COMFORT OF PEOPLE. In fact mainly for the comfort of those who are frightened of the oblivion of death, ...oh yes, and so that religious leaders can wield power over those who blindly follow them. What has the supernatural got do with politics?

Neil, Gloucestershire, England

The church is sounding sour grapes; "You're not paying enough attention to us!". Britain has been Christian for 2,000+ years - do you need to do more research on the church?

Alarum from US: Careful how much power you give your churches-don't become like us, w/church dictating how you must live!

ChrisK, CHICAGO, USA

Curious how many Americans comment on the number of immigrants in the UK, when their whole country was founded by immigrants.

Quite how "born again" Americans reconcile their "Christianity" with wholesale slaughter of innocents, e.g. in Iraq, is beyond me.

Clive, Surrey,

I am simply amazed that People without a faith believe earnestly that people with a faith can't make decisions for themselves. I find slightly disturbing that they should think so. Ministers should include and think sensitvely about all issues.

Steven, Buckhurst Hill,

Would the American racists who have clearly never been to the UK stop posting anti-Islam rants thinly disguised as sarcasm. We are not overrun by Muslims, and even if they made up 90% of the population, they are, like other cultures, a mostly polite and agreeable people.

DC, Doncaster, UK

It is obvious to anyone that cares to see that Britain has rolled over and bared it's throat like the inferior dog to the alpha male with regards to the insatiable demands of the islamists whom you're allowing to dominate British culture.
Pathetic, your forebears would be disgusted to see this.

Al Closson, Tampa Bay, Fl, USA

Minister for Religion? Have the bishops spoken to their titular leader, Her Majesty Elizabeth II Regina, Defensor Fidei etc?

C.E.RIchmond, Ada MIchigan, USA

It is unfortunately too late for any change. It is really funny that liberals cannot tolerate the faith of love and peace and bow down to faith of hatred and unequality. So sad for UK.

m, san diego, usa

Please have your spouse wear her burka and we demand you pay your Sharia Tax on time. Otherwise we will have to send you to understanding koran classes and have you convert to islam

Shah, Minneapolis, USA

We here in the States look at the current state of affairs in Europe with disbelief. You are being over run by muslims and you continue to pander to them. Inch by inch, day by day they are taking over your countries. Burka's are in your future, you may as well embrace it.

steve, Georgia, U.S.

We visited to the UK. We still have friends in Wales. We will never go back to London to visit, only pass through to visit friends when we can. I am sorry the liberal politicians have led to the islamification of London. How soon before the rest of the UK. Wake up UK! Before it is too late.

Steve Bowers , Houston, USA

Some of the xenophobia on here (G.Gibson et al) is disappointing. Different religions can, and often do, co-exist peacefully. What prevents harmony is people preaching - if you are of strong faith good for you - I can make my own decisions. Governments should also decide for themselves w/o religion.

DC, Doncaster, UK

Ah, yes. "Islamophobia", the retort to any concerns regarding this particular, pacifistic, benign belief system whose middle names are love and tolerance. Whose fair and equitable treatment of women is renowned. Did you ever notice their manifesto resembles the Communist Manifesto?

George, Bel Air, USA

2 Timothy 2:3,4: Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one servicing as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs - he wants to please his commanding officer.

Is the commanding officer Jesus or Government?

For those who will: read Galatian 1:10 and Prov 3:5,6

Aaron, Manchester,

"'a lot of Islamophobia' (Jayil, London). Where, exactly is Ruth's islamophobia?" -- Dr Denis

Sir, I was talking about the comment's section. But you already knew that of course.

jayil, london, uk

All you 'secularists' blithering about your nonbelief and how the world would be better w/o religion are parading your total ignorance and mind-boggling arrogance for all of the world to see.

How do you think your secular idiocy will be received in the Caliphate of Londonistan - soon arriving?

Bedford, Millsboro, USA

Glad i'm for Labour. Even though they seem to do a lot for religion this report suggests otherwise!

Keep religion and there very silly ideas out of goverment.

Leon, Brisbane (Formerly Bury),

Since when did chrisitianity = morality? They seem to spend most of their time bashing gays. WTF would we want people like that having even greater influence over the law making process? I think we should appoint a 'secular minister' to advise the religious leaders on how to be ethical.

Rupert, Maidstone,

I am glad someone is finally realizing that without Christianity we have no roots to bind us to beliefs and ideas that we hold sacred in driving societal and humanitarian efforts. As in the US...we wonder what has gone wrong and go about administering first aid when we really need heart transplants

Laurie, Quincy,

Given their track record in recent years, you should all ignore any comment here posted by an American Conservative,

Pete, Los Angeles, USA

Actually, Mr Munro, you're entirely wrong: Germany got exactly what it deserved in Hitler; he achieved power legitimately, through the electorate. Furthermore, his political and social agenda was available to everyone who cared to read it - in Mein Kampf.

Robert, Hull, East Yorkshire

Wow...reading these posts reminds me that I am extremely glad I am a native born American citizen. I have my beloved first Amendment.
Good luck!

Kelly, El Cajon, California, USA

Gareth, the chestnut about the government one deserves is piffle. Germany did not deserve Hitler, America does not deserve Bush, and Samarkand did not deserve Tamerlane.
New Labour exists only as a critique of traditional society, once they have destroyed our culture, they will have nothing left.

stuart-munro, Seoul, Korea

You might note that there are visions and prophecies to the christians in Australia of God Allowing an asian invader on Australian soil because of the sins of the people.
If we go red ,as in Red China, through a dance with Red China, a Chinese takeover is all the easier. Stay home with good old UK

G.Gibson, Sydney, Australia

The Church should recognise that it has no right to interfere in the affairs of the State, and that its arrogance in assuming that it should be anything other than a private delusion is all too apparent.
People who believe in imaginary friends ... not to be trusted!

Mike Homfray, Liverpool,

"Those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones".
Politics, Labour and the church are all dying in the UK.
Politics is dying because people can see politician's lies. Labour is dying because of bad leadership. Christianity is dying because of both. But then this is a blame culture after all

Mark, London, England

Labor in Australia is just as dark.
The PM appears to want Australia with China and asia which will mean a "new communism" down under with possibly, down the timeline, an asia rule over Australia.
You poms should stay at home.
Oz apppears to be being going Red with the loss of Christianity.

G.Gibson, Sydney, Australia

The multi-racist mantra of liberals has condemned future generations of this land to Islam if not civil wars. I hope they are self satisfied. Other cultures just do not share our values. Their higher birth rates dictate Britains horrid future. No wonder we are turning to drink and emigration.

keith bentham, wigan, UK

Well done to them for standing up for what they believe is for the best of the country. Such a shame the politicians themselves couldn't be a little more pro-active!

Brijit, Paris,

'a lot of Islamophobia' (Jayil, London). Where, exactly is Ruth's islamophobia? Do I detect ferocious oversensitivity. The problem is not that the govt. is too interested in Islam, but that it has not yet learned to distinguish moderates from radicals, and prefers the latter.

Dr. Denis MacEoin, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

The church is surprised that the Government has failed? How blindly hypoctrytical. The church has equally faIled in that it has failed its parishoners through years of kowtowing to their own "survival" interests, as opposed to seeing, addressing and meeting the needs of struggling youth and families

Michael S. Williams, Strasburg, Virginia, USA

All ideas are man made and contain the seeds of their destruction. Christianity has proved the most enduring .It is a synthesis of Greek and Jewish,owes as much to Socrates as Jesus. The modern world is based on British christian protestantism, fought for over centuries.

ged, manchester,

A lot of Islamophobia on an article about Christianity. How comes?

jayil, london,

Why do we bother listening to a church that has for so long followed its own interests? the church of england was set up by Elizabeth I to indoctrinate the people into mindless religious devotion; it seems little has changed.

Nick, Liverpool, UK

Not only has our government kowtowed to Islam but so has the CoE. It has spent much time 'building bridges' with Islam and now complains that the government has been doing the same. The church stood by while it's power was taken away and given to other faiths. Still, better late than never.

Lin, London, UK

Liberalism is NOT Christianity, it is diametrically opposed to the Bible.

Arthur, Inverness

Wow, that's pretty damning of Christianity. Historically, I would be inclined to agree, not so much since the enlightenment though. Do you really mean this or should you look up the meaning of liberal?

Rob, Birmingham, UK

Jo, Devon, England

You say we are doing nothing/ignoring Tibet, Zimbabwe, Darfur (lots of other countries too) but what are you doing about it?
Why are you not spearheading campaigns for action/intervention? What action are you suggesting? War? Sanctions? Regime change?

Rob, Birmingham, UK

Wow! the vitriol of the seculairists and their absolute certainty instill more fear and trembling in me that any number of Bishops. Away with the bigoted and fundamentalist secularists.

Dave, Stockport,

When are religious parasites going to get the message?
You're not needed, you're not wanted.
Try getting a job like real responsible adults!

Stuart Hartill, Ramsey, Isle of Man,

They complain about government indifference to Christianity and end up with a plea for government money. He who pays the piper calls the tune.

Robert W Nagel, Wabash, Indiana, USA

"Labour is failing society and lacks the vision to restore a sense of British identity"

Labour does not WANT a sense of British identity!

They seem to hate Britain.

Garth Strong, Los Angeles, USA

Believe a guy dressed up in funny clothes that water & wine is the actual body & blood of Jesus Christ who as someone above said wants Sharia Law?

I for one do not want my kids indocrinated in this nonsense.

Get rid of the CoE representatives in the House of Lords too.

Scott, London,

Wow! Things must be really bad if our liberal (with a few notable exceptions) established Church has started to 'Squawk'. What are they really worried about? Being eventually, even inevitably ousted by Islam if things carry on as they are? I see this only as an indicator of how bad things are now...

P. Williams, London, England

The Episcopal Church in America and the ChOfEng have only themselves to blame for their increasing irrelevance. Mr. Rowan supports sharia in England and my former church (Episcopal) is unable to support what used to be mainstream moral values, all in the name of multiculturalism. Thus their quandry

Nathaniel Clement, North Carolina, USA

Great Britain's anti-Christian biased is clearly seen in its humor, movies and policies... Its openness to Islam, a religion that promotes violence and murder is quite shocking. It's quite clear that GB has lost her sense of direction and possibly her common sense as well.

Rakum, Hampton,

The UK is indeed intent on destroying itself and leaving the pickings for immigrants who have crowded into the country and who have no regard for its rich traditions and history. Europe is a pushover for a religion that has previously conquered by the sword.

David Bridges, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA

I am not a believer, i do however believe in love, love in my family, love in my work, love in my life.
I have to say they have a point and IMO they are right about blair and brown, it's a policy thats been running for way too long and is at the heart of why it's all falling to pieces.

tomireland, Caernarfon, Wales.

If the church thinks they have been ignored by Labour, it seems that they have been doing at least one thing right ! the church has no place in government unless we want to be back in the 14th century when the church made such a good job of it.

am, letchworth,

I am an agnostic. That seems sensible while religions cannot agree on what is right and true. I will wait until they agree! In, Nevertheless, my Christan upbringing was not all wasted and I do wonder what our children will be taught if nothing is to replace our old culture and beliefs!

Brian Lewis, Manila, Philippines

The Church is at least consistent.Reading this I thought Maggie was back .Islam has certainly stirred the Pope and the C of E to acknowledge the competition.
Now he is doing God perhaps St.Tony of the Lie could send a blessing and referee the match after his self exalted elevation to sanctity.

robert everitt, wolverhampton,

The Archbishop of Canterbury.: The Papal Nuncio : : The Grand Mufti; The Moderator of the Church of Scotland;: The CHief Rabbi et.al (in case I have left someone out)
They are the problem, they are not the solution.
Matthew Chapter 7 verse 3, I think should be applied

Peter Bolt, Redditch, UK

Yes. Europe & West needs to turn back to Christian Faith to uphold moral,ethical values.It was spiritual awakening from Europe & America which helped Evangelisation of southern hemisphere. Now It is sorry to see churches becoming cinema halls..and Christian faith limited to "Christmas Trees".

Jacob, DOHA, QATAR

A Minister of Religion? And what would this individuial do?

Rodney Barker, Gainsborough, England UK

Blair spent all his time trying to destroy being English! from scotland recognitionhe beame non-british. We English do not mind that so many country's dislike us. We never make the first move. We are often the only ones to turn up!

andy, london,

Why is this a surprise? The one thing that struck me when I was last in England ... the number of churches empty on Sunday mornings. Just my opinion, but I believe England has become much more secular than the US. But, I suspect we shall catch up.

Tom, Gold Canyon, Arizona, USA

If people wish to believe in the supernatural, and partake in superstitious ritual it is a matter for them. As far as I am concerned, all Gods from time immemorial are fantasies created by people for the comfort of people and in an attempt to explain the seemingly inexplicable.

Neil, Gloucestershire, England

If you look at policies of Liverpool City Council in the early to mid eighties, Labour have adopted that policy. Spend, waste, corruption, unaccountability.
Like the leader of the council at that time there was no check on coucil expenses, taxi's everywhere, rent-a-mob to block protests.

steve tea, manchester, cheshire

Let's hope the Church of England can restore some sanity to your great country with the hope that it can influence such a restoration here. The lack of God and decency in both our countries can be laid at the feet of the immoral left.

Art, Vero Beach, USA

This report is a scam - trying to confuse Christians into thinking that the CofE really does support their Christian beliefs when their actions clearly show they don't (sharia law, gay Bisihops etc.) We have the same type of church corruption in the US, United Church of Christ (supports terrorism)

Gaie, Maui, USA

New Labour have betrayed everyone.

Ian, Bristol,

The government focuses on Islam because they hope to prevent further terrorism. Proving again that terrorism works.

Patrick Henry, Bristol,

It is astonishing to watch how this country, ie Britain, hates and destroys itself. The best foundations of its welfare and success were laid down by Christianity and Christian values. This small island has been respected across the world for preserving and expanding those values.

Alex Spak, London, UK

Bit late to realise that now, isn't it? Has the church of England been asleep? I fear not but, rather, it has thought that the way you deal with evil is to dialogue with it and sit on committees with it, in the hope that it will see reason. Well, it never will and this is the result of that strategy

Paul Danon, London, England

What's the fuss? Church and state are separate in this country, the church's formal inluence is mostly symbolic. That the church uses its platform to voice its concerns is inevitable. Most critics seem to be missing the point of this article and criticizing the church per se rather than what it says

McGinty, Glasgow, UK

At last the church speaks out - Bliar and Brown may sit in the Pulpits and preach and pray for the cameras, but many Christians can see behind the sham and spin !!!!

BEWARE THE FALSE PROPHETS !!!!

ian payne, walsall,

Labours basic problem is it's tolerance of religion. They even discussed a blasphemy law being introduced. Far from having no faith, Labour have encouraged too much faith, something that as far as I am concerned has no place in a modern society. The sooner religion is removed the better.

Karl, Weston Super Mare,

The CoE allowed itself to be taken over by the Socialists many years ago, and that it has now discovered that it has been eaten alive I find quite amusing.

Morvan, Saulieu, France

The Church like rats aboard the sinking ship are laying out designs on Cameron's rescue craft just as it did with the 'The Faith in the City' report during the days of Major when it jumped ship to New Labour. Chistians have a moral compass and being guided by self interest how can it ever be wrong?

Kevin, Lincoln, UK

What a wase of time. People should forget all religions and live rationally. Everytime any kind of faith in something shows up, someone get killed or people are forced to do what the dont want.

Church & religion are parts of a primitive society and should be contained in museums.

Raul, London,

Indeed! Where is the equanimity?

Right now, in North Africa, a "convert to Christianity" has been condemned to prison by the Islamist government. Right now, it is strictly forbidden to sport on ones lapel a cross or (worse yet) a star of David. One risks being imprisoned, or worse.

F. Conron, New Harbor, Canada

When Muslim countries accord full reciprocity to non-Muslims, we can allow them to build mosques here.
No churches allowed in Saudi Arabia! Iran!, etc.
Just try to wear a religious habit in public - get ready to die.

Connors, Montreal, Canada

New Labour have betrayed every hard working, tax paying individuals in this country,religious or not. Any form of decency has been eroded by this lot.

Stan, Lichfield,

Unfortunately, we have the same problem in the U.S. Our country is run by the minority and not the majority. In our country, we can no longer use the word "God" in schools or any public area, but in the same schools, we are required to make accomodations for other religeons, primarily Islam. Sad.

anthony rojo, Bigfork, Montana, U.S.A.

The problem is PC Liberalism in both church and state.
Liberalism is NOT Christianity, it is diametrically opposed to the Bible.

Arthur, Inverness, Scotland

Why are these church leaders complaining? When things were going their way, they basked in the sunshine of government patronage, adorning the benches of the Lords in their lawn sleeves and lacy acoutriments, dining sumptuously every day. Now they have no stomach for the slightest persecution.

Derek Dartford, dartford , England

Gee, you really think so?
Thanks for finally WAKING UP!
You've "tolerated" yourself, your government and your country right out of existence.
The question as always is are you going to DO anything about it?

Mike, Missoula, United States

If you feel strong about this issue, from what ever side of the coin, then join Reveleation or Genesis TV's live week day debates (R Mornings 10.30-12 am, Talk God 12am -8pm and World in Focus 1am-2am) on Sky channel 765 & 772.

They are a nice lot.

Ann, Midlands, UK

The Church of England in its' liberalism turned its' own back on the Cross and now wants to blame the government for their problems...how sad!!
Nature abhors a vacuum and Islam (or others) will fill the spiritual voids.Wake up England; hang on to your culture and faith before it is too late.

Mary Catherine, Austin,

If Bishops etc are important to national life, they should figure more often in BBC and other networks' discussion programmes. Canterbury showed he was inept over sharia. York is good at amiable stunts, RCs dwell on anti-abortion. Where are their profound moral messages for a secular society?

Brian Walker, London, UK

'Physician, heal thyself' comes to mind.

David Marusza, Islington, UK

Nulabour have betrayed the Country as a whole.

Roger, Surrey.,

Church of England accuses the elected government of betrayment... what a joke. What about the millions who are falsely lead into 'their' world of bearded men in the sky and false salvation? It's like saying that the government has betrayed Hobbits... or Luke Skywalker, or Harry Potter! Laughable.

James, London, UK

Awesome ! When are the churches gonna close ?

andy, Darwin, Australia

The UK is a modern democracy and therefore exercises freedom of religion but the UK is NOT a secular state. The state and religion are not seperate and have not been since Henry 8. The state religion is C of E and the Queen is the Head of this body as she is the Head of State.

john, London, UK

We should have a secular Government and secular schools like France. Ethics should be at the heart of moral guidance - family commitment, hard work, fairness and charity.

sk, East Sussex, England

We aren't Christian! We voted for War in Iraq and more lies yet ignore Tibet, Zimbabwe, Darfur.
I’m not religious; just shocked!
As for attacking Labour; has the Church forgotten New Labour is simply the “other Tories”?
Finally, new governments (whatever the party) rarely repeal earlier decisions

Jo, Devon, England

I blame the Church itself for losing its moral compass. Its leaders are in my opinion ethical cowards. They do not speak up at major turning points of history such as genetically modified food, creation of human-animal hybrid and so on. They act as servants to Caeaser and not as servants to Jesus.

Tim, Bolton, England

Good to see Christianity in UK on the back foot. But in the same way as a decline in US influence would let China into the driving seat, so a decline of Christianity would allow Islam to take over. One has to be a little pragmatic I suppose, much as it goes against the grain.

Andrew Milner, Yokohama, Japan

For those who think the church is in decline - come to mine on Sunday. 400+ (including ~200 children & youth). Not just Sundays - during the week there are youth clubs, childrens clubs, senior groups, music /art groups, soup runs, and more all funded by the congregation. Churches build community!

Nick, Plymouth, UK

Whether religious or not, the true morals of any faith seek a civilised and harmonious society. Pressures to maintain an honest position in society are becoming unacheivable. The working man's efforts are become increasingly worthless. Input from the church could well see off the threat of anarchy

Paul F, Ashford, UK

Are the many HYS posters who knock Christianity aware of the free, local, social support it provides, no need to "believe" to qualify, no forms to fill, no tax - the bereaved, lonely, poor, homeless, sick, lost - many are helped (love thy neighbour) - it's not just Sunday services and moral debates!

Greg Saunders, Leamington Spa,

What qualifies an ethos to have the status and to any legal protection or privilege as a religion? Surely one requirement is TRUE BELIEF by its members.There can never have been TRUE BELIEF where there is coercion in recruitment or retention of members or in any tenet or practise of that ethos.

Keith, Rayleigh, England

If people hide in the veil of Christianity to do bad things: Slavery etc it is their fault not that of the Relgion they inhabit for respectability. THe general emphasis of helping the poor has lead to healthcare, education of the masses, Homeless shelters etc. THe faith has and is evolving.

Steven, Buckhurst Hill,

I agree that New Labour have really done a great disservice to the nation and the Church and have allowed a moral vacuum to develop which they cannot plug. I seem to remember that Tony said 5 years ago that crime would be history in the UK. Time to listen again to the Church?

Brian, Maritzburg, South Africa

Religion is one area of public life and as such has a desire to promote itself. It needs finances to run not morality and it has suffered a loss of revenue as it relies on benefactors. The government has not given a lot of support but to create a ministry would help the church feather it's own nest

steve, bath, uk

I was unaware that Blair or Brown had done any good, thankyou for telling me, it was a only a little thing though and not worth mentioning really.

alan, warks, uk

Labour's agenda has been to keep itself in power through appeasing and expanding the minorities vote, taking the poor white vote for granted - only recently is it seeing this backfiring - blatant hate of our culture by some immigrants has not helped its agenda. It is now unelectable for a generation

David, London,

Isn't "important Church of England report" an oxymoron for the majority of the population?

Bill Peter, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Church has accommodated New Labour for a decade: afraid to be accused of obsrtuction, both the Catholic Church and the C of E have turned a blind eye to considerable injustice. Whilst it would be uncharitable to say they speak out too late, it certainly feels so.

Robert, Hull, East Yorkshire

I think the problem is that although the government speaks the language of progress, equality, fairness and empowerment, it has never found the tools to put any of this into effect. Instead we have ended up with a Stalinist-type command and control system of targets and bureacracy

Richard, Bexhill, UK

The 'must have' in today’s socialism is atheism! Much of the press on the Left seems to be sponsored by Dawkins. The cluttered humanism of the Left has tried to take over from religion as the succour of the poor in the mental and physical sense when actually it is just a version of consumerism.

Malcolm Turner, Alsager, England

I dislike religion. I don't need religious interference to tell me how to lead a good life that doesn't harm others. But if people need religion, that's fine for them - just don't force it on me. I want a secular society that promotes equality. Inconvenient I'm sure for those currently losing power.

Julie, Surrey, UK

Yes, most definitely, the New Labour Party has let the Church of England and Britain down. Tony Blair was not to be trusted, he was a turned coat anyhow and was just waiting for the moment to betray his original faith to become an RC. It is simply a disaster. A complete overhaul is required.

Joy Butler, Wiesbaden, Germany

So many blolshy christians, so few lions. Doesn't Christianity rather discriminate between Christians (not that they can even agree who they are) and non Christians? there is no such thing as consistent christian values, they have supported, the devine right of kings, slavery, crusades etc

Tom, Aldershot, Uk

Yes, how dare any government have a madning notion of equality? That's Politcal Correctness gone mad! Yeah right, the church is just mad that gays can marry. They're up there with Irish Robinsonin in the mad house. Maybe there's something wrong with the Church of England, not us. Cake or Death?

Sarah , Belfast ,

Why does the anyone even care about any church any more? they are only there to promote ignorance and elitism in society.Religion was "created" at the time before science was able to do what it does now, and therefore religion is no longer needed to lead the masses of ignorant people, politicians do

luke, perth, australia

Quelle surprise - Labour has betrayed everyone and the quicker this Government is voted out, the better for us all.

Inéz L Collier, Epping, England

"Important Church of England report". No such thing, religiion has no place in modern society and politics.

Chris, Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

About time that the church faced up to what a Liberal-Secular
society actually is......it is a Godless-atheistic society. It did'nt
work in the Soviet Union and it will not work here.

Roger, Weymouth, England

The only BETRAYAL is from the COE which has betrayed Nation as its Established Church and also her ever dwindling congregation.
The figures do not lie as congregations dwindle and Bishops admit 50% of Clergy are not up to the job.
This same Church that backed New Labour& Multi-faith is to blame.

John, Durham, UK

I have always have had problems with governments that tinker with the people's way of life. Mostly they don't know any history or care. They want to change the world, ie world government. This they think will cure all ills.

ben barr, cornwall, pei/ca

It is true, when we arrive at a situation where christmas cards are banned by some councils for fear of affending other religions, something is wrong. I don't think you have to be religious, to know the real values of life, They certainly have nothing to do with ridiculing or dominating women.

johny, Rennes, France

ISTM reading the comments here that the most intolerant views come from secularists who want to ban religion! I'm for a pluralism which respects and tolerates those who are prepared to be respectful and tolerant of others. That rules in most Anglicans and excludes facists of any belief, or none.

andrew holden, oxford, uk

The C of E is correct in it's perception that the Goverment has moved on without it.

However they did sit and watch it happen, without taking sufficient positive action to voice their concerns, until now, so Labour may lack religion, but our national religion lacks leadship.

S Ellis York's

Stephen Ellis, Hull, England

We are facing the results of the coup d'etat stealthily imposed by Blair and Brown. They hoped through unmanifested immigration, taxation, borrowing and spending to create a utopia of Labour self perpetuation. Now the country will have to spend the next generation recovering. Maybe it never will.

Ubi, Edinburgh, UK

This laughable diatribe from the C of E is nothing more than a desperate last ditch grab for power. The sooner it's disestablished, and all "faiths" are simply treated like any other special interest group such as political parties, unions or pressure groups etc, the better off we'll be.

Mark Allen, Nottingham,

I agree with the report in all but one respect, in that the government does have a compass but no morals.

How can a government acknowledge the religion of a specific country when they gave that country to an unelected diktat for it to be carved up and wiped off the global map?

Similarly, why do you suppose Brown and Darling are calling on Mervin King to get ‘independent’ advisers, the BoE will be ‘handed over’ to the Bundesbank?

Jane, Saffron Walden,

Excellent! At last a few Christians in GB are willing to speak against the all-consuming tide of egotistical materialism and hedonism, and question the liberalism which eats away at the moral foundations of our society.
Onward Christian soldiers...don't sit quietly in your pews any longer.

Malcolm Clegg, Wroclaw, Poland

At last, its taken the church to stand up & say what we have all been thinking, still I think its too little too late...

Adrian, Aldershot, ENGLAND

The 'I wants' versus the 'I shoulds'.

Kevin, Leeds,

The suggestion of the Blairs being the most devout Christians leaders is nothing more than spin as in all things Nulab. For a warmonger on one hand and a wife who does not practice catholic birth control how can anyone really suggest they practice Christian values.

Mike, Alicante, Spain

Good work guys!

Given I voted Labour 3 times it shouldn't be like that, but as I've just closed my company after 12 years (10 of which have had NuLab rule) with 39 job losses, anyone criticising this Government gets my vote.

Tim, Bristol,

A Minister For Religion in government? We've had centuries of religious strife in the UK because of these people. We're well on the way to freeing ourselves from their influence, and not before time too. Can't they just give up and leave us alone?!

David Jones, Loughborough, UK

This story has been picked up widely in the press, but is conspicuously absent from the BBC News site up until now. Perhaps we should investigate editorial bias regarding faith issues at the BBC as well as within government?

Roberto, Peterborough, UK

We unbelievers already have to put up with much rubbish from the church - restrictions on Sunday trading, their moral views enforced on us through law - they already have enough say without needing a Minister for Religion, how about a Minister for Secularism first?

andy davies, Glos, UK,

It's wrong to say this Government has no moral direction! Their overwhelming moral purpose is to make us far less reliant on material goods, thus ensuring our spiritual wellbeing.

By immediately taxing anything remotely desirable, they have set about this objective with quite extraordinary vigour!

Lawrence, London, UK

Nulabor traditionally had the support of most Muslims, but since the Iraq war they have been concerned about loosing that support. The solution has been to favour Islam over and above any other religion in the UK, including Christianity.

D Winkworth, Farnborough, Hants

"The sooner the Church of England finally dies the better. It is irrelevant and harmful to modern society."
Michael Pugh, Newbury
I believe history has shown that the Church can outlast nations and civilizations. How sad it is that some people hold on to such negative thoughts and feelings.

Simon, London, UK

This is a secular country & the last thing we need is a Minister for Religion. Having a 'Faith' does not make someone a better person than a non-believer.' Religion is divisive not cohesive. They are correct that this Govt doesn't have a moral direction - but morals do not equal religion.

Donna Walker, Effingham, England

At last Christians are waking up to the fact that much of what Labour represents is at best secular and at worst anti-Christian. In areas of social policy and ethics Labour's track record speaks for itself. Lets start having the discussion in our churches... can a Christian vote labour? No!

Andrew brown, derby, UK

mike, middlesbrough, england said....
People who state we are a secular multicultural society please realise we are not!
Hear hear !

David of London - you're a minority and one of the causes of the problem. Shut up or form an atheist party to represent your views which the majority don't share.

Edward Allen, Durham, England

How absurd. There is a ' Minister ' of Religion - he's called the Archbishop of Canterbury.

We need a new one, who is a religious leader.

Adrian Hill, Battle, UK

The Church of England now faces the prospect of no longer being the largest religious group in the country,and will soon be behind Islam.Who would ever have thought this could have happened ?NuLab.wants all the immigrants it can get as they are likely to vote for them,and boy do they need votes.

Mike, Dunstable, England

The report ''accuses the Government of discriminating against the Christian Churches in favour of other faiths, including Islam.''

What arrant nonsense.
Islam has faced a tirade of bullying from society, with inept Church ''leaders'' like Nazir-Ali joining in the fray like an upmarket Kray twin.

K. Urban, London, UK

I'm 'AMAZED' that the C of E has said this. I thought they wanted to convert us all to Islam.
I love traditional British Christian values even though I don't go to church. The sense of fair play and doing the right thing is very important to me.

Richard, Kidderminster, UK

Don't forget that christianity is a lynch pin of our history for the last 1400 years- it has shaped us as a country until very recently, so yes be secular if you want but don't cast off and spit on the religion that defined England/Britain to such an extent.Like how morality has gone without it btw?

Steve, Norwich, Norfolk

It speaks volumes when even the Anglican church can see the moral vacuum left by recent policies. A vacuum reflected in the unfortunate comments seen here today.
Aborted children, leaderless kids, wealthy but empty society.
Liberal society has failed us.

Graham, Essex, UK

A Minister for Religion? God help us! Doubtless a Christian would be immediately disqualified by this government and its advisors. The responsibility of providing councel and advice is already being fulfilled - by the established Churches in England and Scotland.

Ian Glover, East Calder,

The experiment of virtually unfettered secularism of the past few decades has been a big failure; More and more laws, surveillance society, aggressive, drunken, a massive drugs problem, jails full up,undervalued young people, etc, etc. Was it like this when it was a more christianised society?

Iain, nottingham, nottingham

Fair Comment

New Labour is antiChristian. There is simply no denying this.

Part of New Labour's Project was a suggestion that all religions are equal and all lead to God. Wrong.

Moral and religious equivalence has been proved false. A new paradigm is in the making: You must make a choice.

joe, Berwickshire, Scotland

Religious practices are hobbies. They should have special privileges to the same extent that other hobbies have them.

Should we have a minister for train spotting? Should we automatically give seats in the House of Lords to senior members of flower arranging and photography societies?

Barry Pearson, Stockport, UK

Not only religiously illiterate but illiterate in the areas of science, technology, manufacturing (the list goes on). The modern politician incessantly micromanages and meddles with the areas he thinks he understands (e.g. education) whilst ignoring as unimportant everything else.

Dave, Bognor, UK

In order to understand this problem more fully, I believe we should take into account the effect of the internet on the Atlantic Alliance. The net is gradually creating a global, English-speaking community, whose political values are based largely on the American Constitution. Secularity rules OK.

Edmund Burke, Kingston upon Thames, England

Christians have done pretty well over the years - charitable status , state funded schools to indoctrinate the young , places in the House of Lords , front page media coverage for dotty ideas , legal discrimination . inflammatory literature , no need to follow secular laws. Best to keep quiet?

Rob Green, Essex, England

new labour betrayed the country.everyone and anyone but their rich and poerful friends.
tony bliar was a true charlatan of the 21st century.

ebbi britt, valencia, spain

I see your this subject has not only brought out indignation from christians but also the maggots that occupy the diseased and corrupt Body of socialism

Json Bierce, Richmond surrrey, UK

People are allowed to be Christians and attend church.Few choose to and have no wish to have unelected bishops morals imposed on them.Church and State must be separate.

iain rae, tunbridge wells, u.k.

It is breathtaking that an organisation which has failed to control it's own finances and cannot muster enough unity to prevent a schism feels that it deserves some form of special input to the process of government. Their claim to moral authority is an insult to all our intelligence.

Gordon Hide, Ruislip, UK

Well for a start his scottish, can you say more!!, his only claim to fame apart from ruining our pensions and screwing up the country was how to live of state benefits when at college!!

L.Hall, Kettering, Northants

I can't comment on the reasons, but as an outsider looking in, and from speaking to your ex-pats, I get a sense that Britain has lost it's identity, many of it's cultural traditions and has become a nation of dangerous cultural enclaves, is expensive, unpredictable and has corrupt politics.

Karen, Adelaide, Australia

Well done the C of E. The RC bishops should say the same but they are new Labour. The Cardinal in April invited Tony Blair to be the first speaker at a serious of important talks in Westminster Cathedral and then himself spoke on the same platform as Cherie. They never criticize this government.

George, Bolton, England

This is very frightening. Why would anyone want government policy based on irrational belief in stories? Religion has no place in government, and the idea that any faith is responsible for morality is a concept so full of holes it's laughable.

Camilla, Burnley,

I think tollerance was the great value of this country when Christians value were strong. Now with the government obsessed by the "political correct" we are loosing freedom of speech and democracy. It is about time people wake up....If we loose Christianity we loose freedom.

Antonella, LONDON,

At last the CofE has found a voice and is telling us what we already know that for decades, and certainly the last decade, there has been a loss of social, moral and ethical as well as Christian values all undermined by the agenda of a liberal elite pursuing a secular policy bereft of standards.

Kenneth Armitage, SUFFOLK, ENGLAND

No longer having any power, the Church is suddenly recalling the parable of the Good Samaritan. For centuries they passed by on the other side of injustices such as slavery and apartheid - not so long ago they were torturing and burning heretics. The lesson is never let these people have power.

Kevin Straw, Leicester,

The CofE supported Multiculturalism, it is the most corrosive social policy ever. It marginalised the Judeo-Christian values held by the majority and excluded the white working class.

You need to oppose it before Harman implements discrimination against white males. (Yes, she has suggested it).

jasper, chelmsford,

This government is lacking a compass and discernable direction. Its time to move away from the intellectually bankrupt secular agenda and time for the church to reclaim its story. Britain is built on the values of Christianity. It is intellectually reckless and ignorant to deny that.

Nicholas, Guildford, England

The Cof E is making ridiculous demands. The UK is a secular state and certainly doesn't need a minister of religion. Our pluralist culture owes more to the enlightenment philosophers of the 18 Century than to the church, which was never interested in democracy until its support began to wane.

Tony Robinson, radcliffe, UK

Yep. that's right, Labour has dumped just about everybody and we are all very well aware of it. Labour dislikes religion because they don't want to be reminded that they haven't done the right thing. If they had their way Labour would be going back to the days of the reformation and burning churches

judy, liverpool, England

If the C of E leaders really believed the gospel message, shouldn't they be trying to quietly convert muslims, hindus and even the jedi to Christianity? Or at least suggest they read the New Testament? Instead they simply obess about homosexuality and political multi-cultural correctness. Shame.

Janet, London ,

The only way to view Christians as a majority is that a lot more people say "I'm a Christian" (simply because it's the done thing and they were baptised) than really are.

Church attendances give a more realistic count. Very few.

Society should be structured for all, not any particular section

Clive, Surrey,

So join the rest of us who have been deserted by Govt.and sold down the drain. Nice to know others are suffering.

M. Cawdery, Portadown, Co. UK, EU.

It's not just the Church that feels under-represented by a government supporting the minority - it is also the majority of this population, who constantly put our opinions forward (congestion charges, railworks, speed cameras) just to be ignored. But who are always called on when help is needed.

Kristi, Warrington, UK

The same people who are critical of this report,must consider this.Do they think that the values that we treasure in this country just dropped out of the sky?No!They are the legacy of two thousand years of the christian faith!As the song goes"You dont' Know what you've got till it's gone!Wake up!

raymond joseph douglas, northampton uk, ukj

No leading with this Archbishop, thankyou. He is far too academic and rarified. Someone like Desmond Tutu would be the right man to take a lead. But where is the person of his qualities amongst these old greybeards of the C of E?? You should try The Church in Wales. Oh boy! that is even worse.

Colin, Llandingat, Rural Wales

There should be no formal relationship between the church and the state as they have no monopoly on the morals of the public since only 6% of the public attend church . Religion is only a superstition and should be treated on the same level as palmistry, astrology and voodo for that matter.

Dave Madley, Alicante, Spain

I totally agree with the report...thank you Church of England!!

Jean, London, E

Christianty made Western Culture, not the other way around. To equate and rationalize Christianity with any other religion is to not consider that every first world naton is Christian (except Japan) while the rest of the other religions are predominately third world.

Duncan, Grand Rapids, MI, USA

Why should government reflect one faith, and not others? It's possible to appreciate how Church(es) did provide social cohesion and services, when there was no effective government, but that's history. Now we need secular states, to keep these religious divisions out of the public sphere.

brian t, Dublin, Ireland

The CofE is the church most brits love and hate - can't live with it or without it! History shows that establishment in Britain is here to tame religion and tone down extremism - get rid of it at your own peril. Britain is neither secular nor christian - a tolerant but pluralist society is needed.

andrew holden, oxford, uk

It seems just the opposite to me. Schools must by law make children perform an act of "broadly Christian worship" (although that is more polite than the phrase I would use for it). When indoctrination of children into Christianity is virtually compulsory you would expect the Church to be very happy.

Alan C, Liverpool,

I would accept a "Minister for Religion" on condition that we also have a Minister for Secularism, charged with keeping religion out of politics, abolishing divisive faith schools, and ensuring that religious lobbyists have no more say in public policy than any other special interest group.

Bob, London,

Two things the A of C could do straight away to win me back would be -
1. Ban the display of Christmas crap in department stores until December 1st (a source of hilarity and contempt for our non-Christian citizens).
2. Prohibit non-Christian religions from taking over disused C of E churches.

Theo Nelson, South Hams,

Religious illiteracy? Why should the government have to be religiously literate? Why does religion demand that anyone other than its adherents be "literate" of it? This squabbling is a sign that we ought just to disestablish and leave religion in the private sphere, where it belongs.

Andy Armitage, Hebron, Whitland, West Wales, UK

Religious leaders throughout time have been responsible for countless wars and millions upon millions of deaths. The sooner this mumbo jumbo disappears, the better.

brian keating, agde, france

http://www.academia.org/lectures/lind1.html
Provides an insight into the current governments policies and their real agenda I suggest all should read it even the Archbishops

Dave, Chorley, UK

If someone were looking for spiritual dimension to their life, I doubt that they would find it in today's Anglican Church. They might be more likely to be inspired by Catholicism, Quakerism, or even Islam (of the Sufi-orienteded variety). Today's Church seems so petty-minded and unappealing.

vicky, nottingham, england

So this is the same irrelevant, established church with too much influence, whose leader wishes to see Sharia Law integrated into our legal system? When will there be a government strong enough to disestablish the C of E. and rid the legislature of the meddling Bishops of an organisation, which lost its way years ago?

Alex , Firenze, Italy

This is another legacy of that charlatan Tony Blair, and more of the problems of his era are now surfacing.

He made non-stop excuses in his time, but the effects of his ''leadership'' will eventually surface.

F Cockburn, London, UK

As the Anglicans are the established church in this country are they not in a position of leadership already ?
Perhaps the archbishop and bishops should be less woolly and lead !
Put more effort into Christian education , for a start. That would be one way of sustaining a Christian culture.

Lindi, England,

Attacking Labour is not a good course for church. Be careful! In the coming days the Cabinet would urge a bill on church. That would be the time you've had it.

cristiano, Wuhan, China

Being religious necessarily involves believing impossible things before breakfast, but if the CofE was taken in by Noolaber it should be ashamed of itself.

John Ledbury, Kings Lynn, England

Christopher Hitchen is spot on when he writes:

God is Not Great.

Religion Poisons Everything.

David, Canterbury,

I thought we lived in a democracy. I can't understand why this government ignore the majority and concentrate all their efforts on the minority, namely islam. And I do beleive the COE has been completely ignored and counted as obsolite when it has been a backbone of this nation for centuries.

Daniel, Bristol,

I'm fed up with the sky pixie followers complaining that they don't have the influence that they feel they should. The sooner that level of influence is reduced to zero, the better. Politicians are elected to represent their constituants - not their imaginary friends.

Andrew, Cardiff, UK

200 years ago the Church provided for the welfare and education of the common people a since taken over by the State. People then stopped attending church as there was no longer a good reason to do so. Religion exists as a means of control over the people a fact that can be seen all over the world.

Gary, Swindon,

I decided in 1948as an 11yrold that socialism was a form of insanity, and religion based on absurdity. Both have proved right,Whilst socialism is an hopeless cause religion is based on something true that has been wrongly interpreted, and abused.I belong to the YMCA =physical mental spirit

ged, manchester,

When will the Churches accept that they represent an infinitesimal proportion of the population? They have the right to their opinion: they definitely do not have the right to inflict it on the rest of us.

Peter Martin, Welwyn,

The Churches are not blameless here. As I recall, Leviticus didn't just condemn homosexuality, he demanded corrupt businessmen be stoned to death. You can't shut Christians up about the first and they seem to be oblivious to the latter. This a la carte interpretation robs them of all authority.

Ed, Cardiff,

Likewise we also have Chinese spies all over OZ (1,000 according to Chen Yonglin) and the nations defences are ALWAYS! at 3rd world levels in organisation and provision. There are no guns in the Defence cupboard for the citizens if an invader comes and no plans for a national resistance against asia

G.Gibson, Sydney, Australia

Hmm maybe the reason the new ELEET our masters and social betters like islam is because islam is different from christianity in its demand for obediance in all ways dont rebel against even the worst gov or your in violation of a islamic law

James, TN, USA

It is good to see that there are still some in the Church who retain a sense of humour. At a time when few people can be bothered to attend church each Sunday, the call for a Minister of Religion is laughable. The point is that people want less religion; not more.

Des, Edinburgh,

How can any Christian vote for the absolute evil that is New Labour?

It would surely be a Mortal Sin to do so.

Brian Drury, London Colney, England

The sooner the Church of England finally dies the better. It is irrelevant and harmful to modern society. Just look at the uproar over the recent embryology bill for an example.

State sponsored religion is a ridiculous idea; secularism and equality is the only way forward.

Michael Pugh, Newbury,

I agree with the broad conclusions as a true and fair description of our government. But a Country gets the government it deserves and our Britain is fairly represented by the Government described. So, while I expect incomprehension/ condemnation from those who read this report, I think it fits.

Gareth Davies, Burnham on Crouch, UK

Well...youve still got many strong, noble men and women in England, bulldog men and women, who can save the country.
One needs to whistle up a few intelligence boys (Mi5/Mi6) and get out an find out what the weaker, more decadent, politicians are doing in behind closed doors and expose it.

G.Gibson, Sydney, Australia

This will be the same church that has a leader who thinks we should allow Sharia Law in the UK!

John, Salford, England

People who state we are a secular multicultural society please realise we are not! We are a majority white christian society which means we come first. Labour will find this out at the next election and it would not be suprising if they were wiped out as a political force as well

mike, middlesbrough, england

Good. If the church is spitting chips we must be on the right track then.

Hugh Szymonowski, London,

Well reported, its about time the church stood up for people like me and my family, this goverment has done everything it can to help Islam in this country, if the church is going to support me then i will support the church.

shane, blackburn, england

Under the establishment of the Church, the Archbishop of Canterbury is the "faith envoy" of the state.

bernard, oxford,

In that case I want a "No Faith" minister for us unbelievers. I don't see why we should pander to these minorities in a secular society.

David, London,