The Church Times reported on the results of a survey by the National Church Trust that found that some 5% of respondents expected their church to close in the next 5 years and 10% reported that their church building required urgent repairs in the next 12 months.
The report identified climate change as a contributing factor: with “heavier rainfall and more frequent storms, churches face having to anticipate weather extremes that accelerate wear and tear on their buildings”.
The report also identified how church buildings are being used more flexibly. Many had been adapted and more than half said their church was used by other organisations at least once a week – for community groups (76%), food distribution (56%), youth groups (49%) and mental-health support (34%).
85% said they would expand their community support for their church if they had more resources, though shortage of volunteers continues to be an issue. 83% said the successful management of their buildings depended on volunteer support and 45% that the lack of volunteer time limited their ability to provide more community activities.
According to the report, “Volunteers are the hidden engine of church life, and without them so many aspects would grind to a halt. They are often how doors are unlocked, choirs can sing, food is distributed and young people find safe spaces to belong, along with supporting the clergy in immeasurable other ways. The contribution of this unseen workforce is immense.”
Read the full article in the Church Times, here.