The Churches And Social Issues (Press, 4 October 1986)

In "The Church on Trial," author George Bryant examines the perceived politicisation of churches, particularly focusing on agencies like the National Council of Churches. The narrative begins with an anecdote involving Cyril Garbett, Archbishop of York, who emphasised the importance of preaching on "The Love of God" when asked about his sermon topic, highlighting the tension between spiritual and social discourses within church leadership. Bryant, who has a solid background as an educator and Methodist lay preacher, alleges that the church's involvement in political issues undermines genuine Christian commitment. His case revolves significantly around newspaper accounts, leading to the critique that the alleged politicisation may be more of a "media event" than a reflection of reality. Although he contends that his aim is not to produce an academic treatise, he seeks to provide a balanced exploration of various contentious issues without overly influencing interpretations. The book delves into seven key topics, including the Springbok Tour, racism, Waitangi, Bastion Point, abortion, homosexuality, and nuclear disarmament. The chapter on homosexuality stands out, as it reflects Bryant's intention to present a fair discussion. However, the analysis soon reveals a bias as he leans towards one side of the debate with notable aggression. The failure to consistently differentiate between homosexuality and homosexual acts is viewed as a critical oversight that simplifies a complex issue. Bryant highlights the divide between religious conservatives and liberals, yet he overlooks the nuances within conservative perspectives—specifically, that some may favour decriminalisation of homosexuality while still considering homosexual acts morally wrong. His assertions lack substantiation, particularly in reference to the consequences faced by the Anglican Church in Christchurch during 1979, where he states that "a number of members left the church" without providing specifics. Critical voices within the church, such as Dean Rymer, who struggles to accept homosexuality as a legitimate alternative to heterosexuality, are mentioned, but without substantive explanations. This lack of depth leads to questions about the arguments presented and their validity. Instead of providing a careful examination of Biblical texts from both sides, Bryant's treatment appears overly partisan. Despite its shortcomings, particularly noted in terms of balance and historical context, "The Church on Trial" serves a valuable purpose. It offers a perspective on how churches have engaged with political issues, especially since the 1950s, reflecting changes in attitudes and actions, albeit through a lens shaped by Bryant's convictions. The book is not merely a critical analysis but a representation of sentiments held by many church members at the grassroots level. In conclusion, while some may find fault in Bryant's approach or conclusions, "The Church on Trial" is a significant discussion piece for historians and church leaders, necessitating thoughtful consideration rather than dismissal.

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