Public Life and the Place of the Church

The work of Richard Harries, Bishop of Oxford from 1987 to 2006, has been highly distinctive for the consistency of its engagement with contemporary society. It represents a model of the Church which is outward-looking, a Church which is as ready to learn from others as it is to offer its own wisdom and resources. This book reflects on Richard Harries' ministry in the 'borderlands' of society and Church, and engages deeply with the nature of modern society and the place of the Church within it. Taking Richard Harries' contributions as their inspiration, key figures, each of them major commentators on areas of pressing contemporary concern, probe the important questions which people are asking about a range of social issues. Arms and violence, the role of the media in public life, spirituality, multifaith Britain, sex, capitalism, the second chamber, and medical ethics are all discussed, building up a serious debate on the kind of society in which we live and making suggestive comments about the part which the Church might play. Contributors: Sabina Alkire, Michael Bourke, Melvyn Bragg, John Drury, Claire Foster, Jonathan Gorsky, Anthony Howard, Douglas Hurd, Eric James, Julia Neuberger, Edmund Newell, Christopher Rowland, Jane Shaw, Margaret Shepherd, Roger Wagner, Keith Ward, Rowan Williams, Shirley Williams and James Woodward.'For many years, Bishop Richard Harries has been an outstanding voice of conscience and moral courage and a personal embodiment of all that is best and noblest in the life of faith. This volume honours one who has honoured us, constantly summoning us to the better angels of our nature.' Chief Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks 'This is an extremely interesting and thought-provoking collection of essays, and reflects the depth and variety of Richard Harries' thought. He has contributed enormously to the reputation of the Church as fully engaged in current public issues. A strong, steady moral stream flows through all his numerous public statements; he has always been honest in facing difficult questions.' Baroness Warnock of Weeke '(a) fascinating collection of papers that includes articles by Christopher Rowland, Julia Neuberger, Melvyn Bragg, Keith Ward, Jane Shaw, John Drury, Douglas Hurd, Rowan Williams and many more. There is a dialogue between Shirley Williams, Michael Bourke and Anthony Howard. All of the contributors can claim to have had some kind of relationship as friends, colleagues, or collaborators with Bishop Richard and their range is a tribute to the breadth of his interest.' The Church of England Newspaper