The diocese’s Buildings Strategy has received final approval from members of the Bishop’s Diocesan Council (BDC) after previously being enthusiastically welcomed by diocesan synod members in February.

Work will now begin on a delivery plan with the aim of parishes seeing the first benefits later this year.

Speaking after the BDC meeting, Kate Cortez, Deputy Diocesan Secretary and report author, said: “The key aim of this strategy is to really help parishes. This strategy drives real investment into the life and mission of the Church in Cornwall. It will support parishes in their stewardship of historic church buildings.”

In 2023 the Diocese of Truro committed £22 million taken from diocesan reserves over the next ten years to support parish and deanery plans; investing in the life and mission of the church in Cornwall. £2 million of this will go towards the aims and objectives set out in the Buildings Strategy.

Revd Laura Bushell Hawke, who chaired the advisory group developing the strategy, added: “We think the proposals for match funding, more small grants, shared services and support officers is the most effective way to reduce burden and move from fear to faith.”

The strategy was subject to extensive consultation during its creation and at February’s diocesan synod meeting, members were quick to support it.

Speaking at the time, Patrick Newberry, member from Stoke Climsland, and founder of the Cornwall Buildings Group, said: “It is an excellent paper about helping people overcome the daunting process of looking after these buildings. Great paper, great ideas… It could do a lot to help people blow away the myths.”

Revd Elizabeth Burke member from the Isles of Scilly said: “I love the direction its going in. Triage of the buildings. Increase of building support officers, grant raising, help with faculties.”

Revd Laura added: “Our prayer is that this strategy will help us steward these sacred places with courage and kindness, so that we remain rooted in place; growing in faith – and so that these buildings continue to be signs of God’s life among us for generations to come.”