Church of England Decline Deepens as Experts Warn of ‘Financial Disaster’

The Church of England is facing a sobering reality: Its decline is no longer just about empty pews. Instead, it could threaten the future of the institution itself.

According to Church Times, two academics are sounding the alarm that the Church of England is heading toward “financial disaster” as both attendance continues to fall and the number of clergy shrinks.

Canon Robin Gill from the University of Kent, and professor John Craven, issued the warning in a new report titled Wasted Money in a Diminishing Church.

And the numbers reveal just how serious the situation has become.

A 2024 review of diocesan finances found that attendance across dioceses had fallen between 25% and 40% since 2015. Parish-share income was also down nearly 30% before the 2020 pandemic.

Then there is the clergy problem.

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The number of ordinands preparing for ministry has fallen roughly 40%, while Save the Parish reports that full-time stipendiary clergy positions have declined 28% since 2000.

Fewer people in the pews. Fewer ministers preparing to lead them. Less money flowing into the system.

If that trajectory continues, the Church of England could look dramatically different in the years ahead.

Gill and Craven warn of a dangerous cycle: Declining attendance means smaller congregations and less giving. Fewer cl…