Census 2021: Archbishop of York says it’s ‘not a great surprise’ that most people don’t identify as Christian

For the first time ever, the number of people who consider themselves as Christian is now less than half the population of England and Wales.

The Office for National Statistics has released the latest data taken from the 2021 Census, showing the changes since 2011.

Some 46.2% said they were Christian, down from 59.3% in 2011.

The Archbishop of York, Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell, said it was no great surprise.

“The Christian church exists to share the good news of Jesus Christ, serve our neighbour and bring hope to a troubled world,” he said.

“That’s what we’ve done for 2,000 years – in times of war and peace; hardship and plenty; revival and decline and it’s what we must do now more than ever.

“It’s not a great surprise that the Census shows fewer people in this country identifying as Christian than in the past, but it still throws down a challenge to us not only to trust that God will build his kingdom on Earth but also to play our part in making Christ known.

“We have left behind the era when many people almost automatically identified as Christian but other surveys consistently show how the same people still seek spiritual truth and wisdom and a set of values to live by.

“This winter – perhaps more so than for a long time – people right across the country, some in desperate need, will be turning to their local church, not only for spiritual hope but practical help. 

“We will be there for them, in many cases, providing food and warmth. And at Christmas millions of people will still come to our services.”

One of those churches that is heavily involved in helping the community regardless of people’s faith or interest in God is Our Lady’s Catholic Church in Acomb.

Father Tony Lester explained what they were doing:

“Since the beginning of lockdown, we’ve been running a food bank, with our local school, reaching out to families who are in need.

“The church always has an Outreach Programme. So people visit the sick, the elderly.

“At the moment, just about to start a heat bank in the parish hall one day a week.

“And the help that we give, and we are very clear on this, is never based on somebody’s religious faith. It’s simply based on need. So we don’t just help the Christians We will help anybody who needs help as much as we can do.

“We are certainly helping more people.”

The census also found that

• 90.3% of the population selected at least of these identities: British, English, Welsh, Scottish, Northern Irish, or Cornish
• an increase in multi-ethnic households, from 8.7% to 10.1%.