Last updated 24th August 2023

Interfaith presence and engagement

Presence and Engagement is the Church of England’s national programme equipping Christians for mission and ministry in the wonderful diversity of our multi faith society.

The programme has developed a new language for this work, focusing on the importance of the Church both remaining present in multi religious areas and engaging positively with communities of other faiths.

Presence and Engagement is different from inter faith dialogue, although complementary to it. The programme focusses on the task of resourcing the Church for work which will include, but is not limited to, dialogue with people of different faiths.

In the 2021 census, nearly 8% of the Lancashire population said they followed a non-Christian religion. In some of our East Lancashire parishes in particular this percentage is much higher. A total of 54.7% of the County identify as Christian and the remainder of the population say they have no religion or prefer not to say.

For more information about Presence and Engagement nationally click here

Meanwhile, the Diocese regards the importance of racial justice very highly and is working as part of the Church of England's 'From Lament to Action' project to ensure this remains a top priority going forward. Read more about From Lament to Action here, where you will also find the latest updates.

The Bishop's Adviser on BAME/GMH matters, which includes presence and engagement, is Rev. Dr Sarah Gill. She can be reached via her admin colleague at sue.grime@blackburn.anglican.org 

Karen Ashcroft, last updated August 2023