West Cumberland Times Sat Oct. 25, 1884 Mr. GLADSTONE on the Church

Mr. GLADSTONE on the Church

West Cumberland Times - Saturday Oct. 25, 1884

MR. GLADSTONE ON THE ESTABLISHED CHURCH _______         At St. Asaph's Diocesan Conference, on  Wednesday, and important letter was read from the Premier, on "The Established  Church of England." The right hon. gentleman stated that he treated the question  form an impersonal, impartial and historical point of view. He avoided entering  on the controversial points as to the utility or non-utility of an Established  Church, or the probability of the disestablishment  of the English Church,  and whether such disestablishment would be attended with disastrous results; but  Mr, GLADSTONE said it would be disgraceful if it were brought about by the  neglect, indifference or deadness of the church; it would be disgraceful if it  were brought about by internal  dissensions among the members of the  church. That would be an unworthy termination of the controversy, which ought to  be settled on higher grounds.       The Premier gives an historical account  of the Church. He points out that defects and scandals have abounded. At present  the strifes of parties within her is softened, but is still sharp. Generally,  however, the hopes of The Church of England are higher and more buoyant than,  perhaps, they have ever been, but he warns churchmen that if she is not to fall  they will have to recognise the lines on which she is founded, and practise  mutual forbearance and toleration.       -The paper was well received by the  Conference.

 

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