Primate bemoans Church of England's 'gift' for casting itself in unflattering light

The Church of England has an “almost supernatural gift” for presenting itself in the worst possible light in the eyes of the …

The Church of England has an “almost supernatural gift” for presenting itself in the worst possible light in the eyes of the public, the archbishop of Canterbury has said.

Dr Rowan Williams said the public needed to know about the “good news” of Christian belief manifested in the work of groups such as the Church Urban Fund, which supports more than 300 church and Christian projects tackling poverty, and the church’s response to last year’s riots. The fund is helping society see the reality of powerlessness and deprivation – a reality which most would prefer not to see, Dr Williams said.

His remarks come after the church was attacked by gay rights campaigners last week over its criticism of British government plans to introduce same-sex marriage. – (PA)