New Anglican Primate Shane Parker Aims to Revitalize Church

Shane Parker, elected as the new primate of the Anglican Church of Canada on June 26, 2023, is determined to rejuvenate the church, which currently has approximately 300,000 members across 1,500 parishes. His vision is to create an “enlivened church” that uplifts the spirits of all its members while addressing significant declines in attendance and engagement.

Parker, who previously served as the bishop of Ottawa, recognizes a “profound need for change” within the church. Membership has dropped from around 1.2 million members in the 1960s to its current figures, reflecting a broader trend in organized religion. Recent statistics reveal a 12 percent decrease in total parish membership from 2019 to 2022, alongside a 26 percent decrease in average Sunday attendance and a 17 percent decrease in financial contributions. Notably, attendance on major holy days has also plummeted, with a 45 percent decline in Easter participation and a 47 percent decrease during Christmas.

Parker emphasizes that the church must shed its outdated mindset, which he describes as reminiscent of the 1950s and 60s, a time when congregations thrived amid the post-war baby boom. He stated, “Back then, the idea was if you build it, they will come.” Today, however, he acknowledges that “we live in a different time.”

To address these challenges, the General Synod has adopted six “pathways” for change. These strategies include reducing the church’s organizational structure, reviewing staffing levels, promoting inclusivity and diversity in decision-making, assessing communication models, refining partnerships with Indigenous Anglicans, and enhancing ministry efforts in remote communities.

Parker believes these changes will require “deep changes in our culture, in our structures, in our operations.” He aims to dismantle barriers between church leadership and members, drawing an analogy to insulation in a home that can either protect or isolate. He remarked, “We need to feel the cold and the heat and the wind and the fire,” underscoring the importance of engaging with the current societal context.

As he embarks on his three-year term, Parker is focused on fostering a cultural change within the church. He aims to help Anglicans adapt to their smaller role in Canadian society while maintaining a “humble confidence” that they have valuable contributions to make. These contributions include core Gospel values such as peace, justice, and care for the vulnerable—principles that resonate with many Canadians today.

Parker’s vision extends beyond internal church reform. He is also committed to strengthening ecumenical and interfaith relations, recognizing common ground with other faith communities. Furthermore, he advocates for inclusivity, particularly for LGBTQ+ members, and aims to deepen relationships with Indigenous peoples.

In light of current global events, Parker has expressed a desire for the church to support those suffering in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza. Following his election, he wore a stole adorned with Jerusalem crosses, signaling his awareness of the ongoing crisis. He condemned the recent Hamas attack on Israel as “heinous” but also criticized the Israeli government’s response, calling for a reconsideration of “proportionality” in their actions.

As the Anglican Church of Canada navigates these transformative changes, Parker’s leadership will be pivotal in redefining its role and relevance in contemporary society. His call for an engaged and revitalized church resonates with a community eager for renewal and purpose in a rapidly changing world.