In an occasional series on
ConservativeHome, we are profiling groups within the Conservative
Party that focus on specific issues or the involvement of particular
sections of society. Elizabeth Berridge profiles the Conservative Christian Fellowship today, of which she is the Director. If you would like your group to be profiled please email Tim.
Just over 15 years ago in “digs” at Exeter University two students, Tim Montgomerie and David Burrowes founded the Conservative Christian Fellowship. During its relatively short history the CCF has promoted, well before it was fashionable, the “Compassionate Conservative” agenda and birthed the “Renewing One Nation” think tank which sought to secure social justice as a concern for those on the right of the political spectrum. But like all young organisations its focus has evolved and the CCF, although retaining its independence from the party structure, is today a relational bridge for the party as well as a membership organisation.
But isn’t church membership declining, why bother with the church, I hear you say. Don’t believe all you read in the newspapers is what I would reply. Yes, in some areas churches are in decline, as seen by the party converting a disused church in Bournemouth to be a community centre. However, should you visit Bournemouth train station on a Sunday just go to the old B and Q Warehouse next to the station to see hundreds of people including many young people at church. And should you try and go to see “We Will Rock You” at the Dominion Theatre on a Sunday you will find 5,000 people attending church there. Finally if you are not yet convinced, the largest Black denomination has a gathering in East London with 25,000 adults and 5,000 twice yearly from 8pm until 5.30am on a Friday night!
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