Bishops in talks on future of the Church of England

The bishops are less than halfway through a tour of the Diocese of Hereford, which covers most of south Shropshire, but already have been inundated with people wanting to speak to them and ask questions about how the Church moves forward in the coming years.

The two church leaders are attending a series of events across the region as part of a drive to speak to parishioners in an informal setting.

Bishop of Hereford Richard Frith said: "Numbers are already greater than we expected at our first three events.

"We had more than 100 in Craven Arms Community Centre and even more at Hereford Cathedral.

"There were lots of conversations and Bishop Alistair and I were put on the spot several times.

"We plan to bring those conversations together and work out how God is inviting us as Christians, as churches, as a diocese today, to respond to His great generosity, and to be part of the difference He longs to see in the lives of the communities we serve. That is a big conversation. It affects all that we are and all that we do."

The events range from family fun afternoons to evening pop-up cafes and pub events as the diocese aims to bring the debate to a more informal setting.

The Rev Ruth Hulse, one of the project's organising committee, said: "Pints of View at the Welsh Club in Hereford was really popular.

"The chance for a chat with other church people alongside the bishops over chips, curry and beer proved irresistible to around 100.

"It certainly stretched the catering as that was a lot more than the numbers who had signed up – but like the miracle of the two loaves and five fishes, there was enough for all! We are asking people to sign up in advance if they can, to give us a chance to get the catering right at each place, but we welcome those turning up on the day, too."

She said there were plenty of events yet to come, with locations as widespread as possible with the aim of not leaving anyone out.

Forthcoming "Follow!" events will be held at Leominster Priory on September 19, Ludlow CE School on September 21, and The Community College in Bishop's Castle on September 24.

Information about all events can be found on the diocesan website www.hereford.anglican.org