Re-Enchanting Re-Enchanting... The Church Of England - Angela Tilby
May 13, 2026
Angela Tilby, broadcaster, writer and Church of England priest, and author of Good Faith: Why England Needs Its Church. She reflects on literature and Christian formation, the meaning of an established church and its cultural footprint. Conversations wander through monarchy symbolism, bishops in public life, institutional trust versus organisations, scandal and reform, and quiet signs of renewal.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Called Out At An Ordination Retreat
- Angela Tilby described being unexpectedly called out by a bishop at an ordination retreat, which prompted her to consider ordination herself.
- She had worked 22 years in BBC religious broadcasting and ten years as a reader before that moment led her into priesthood, tying pastoral care to eucharistic ministry.
What Established Church Actually Means
- Angela explains 'established church' as the Church of England being legally tied to state, dating from the Elizabethan settlement with Protestant doctrine and Catholic order.
- She highlights practical effects: parish rights, bishops' role, coronation duties, and that disestablishment would unravel many linked institutions.
Vestige As A Living Footprint
- Tilby uses 'vestige' positively: church presence in the English landscape is a meaningful footprint, not merely a fading relic.
- She points to ubiquitous church spires visible from sea and air as evidence the church still shapes communities physically and culturally.
