Faith in Society

Faith-based social action has a long and glorious history - indeed it is faith that was the motivator of many institutions and their approaches today. From monasteries and abbeys providing shelter, health care and sanctuary, through the development of schools, residential care and indeed the founding of the welfare state, people of faith have been behind a great deal of the social effort and the network of provision that we rely on today.

This is a proud record of achievement and there never was a time when the churches stood back from social action. It has been an integral part of the purpose and mission of the church.

In commissioning the inquiry, the Church Urban Fund’s aim was to consider various aspects of faith-based social action promoted by and with the Church of England, often in close collaboration with other churches and secular organisations.