A plan to create a 21-church benefice in Cornwall has been approved by the Church Commissioners, despite significant opposition.
The so-called ‘mega benefice’ will unite six existing benefices in Kerrier Deanery, with oversight provided by a rector, two vicars and several lay leaders.
The Church Commissioners received 171 representations against the proposals and 23 in support.
In a statement to Premier Christian News, the Diocese of Truro said it recognised “that this process has prompted strong feelings. People care deeply about their churches and communities which have a deep faith, history, and identity, and that commitment is valued and respected. We understand that legitimate concerns were raised and our hope now is that everyone including those who opposed the scheme can see the good and the hope in this outcome”.
The move reflects the changing face of the Church of England nationally and comes amid declining church attendance, clergy numbers and financial pressures. More than 60 per cent of parishes in England are now part of a multi-parish benefice, compared with around 17 per cent in 1960.
In Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, Rev Andrew Vaughan is responsible for ten churches. He told Premier: “I’m not in this to moan that the Church of England has got this wrong. It's a reality that we have to face up to, and sometimes in facing up to reality, we find hope. But it is a massive change in how oversight ministers, those with responsibility, have to view their role”.
In 2017, Rev Andrew was responsible for four churches before taking on an additional six, across an area stretching from Lincoln towards Leicester and Newark.
He said: “my mileage went up from an average of 250 miles a month to 400-450 miles a month. So, a reliable vehicle, an enjoyment of driving is part of the process now”.
He added that clergy increasingly have to work collaboratively and in “different ways to make sure that people feel that their priests are there for them to support and encourage them on their Christian journey, and to unlock the congregation's talents.
“Perhaps we’re no longer ‘jack of all trades’, we're actually the person who says, ‘I think you can do that better than me. Could you do it, please?’”.
The Diocese of Truro added: “We now move into a phase where how the plan is implemented will be crucial. The priority is to ensure that worship, pastoral care, and community life remain at the heart of every parish.
“We are committed to working collaboratively with the people of Kerrier Deanery as it serves every parish into the future.”