FAQ 1: Why a ‘religious think-tank’ – are you basically trying to defend religion?
Our purpose is not to 'defend' or 'attack' - it's to deepen understanding and generate fresh, creative perspectives.
Ekklesia seeks to be both engaged with, and properly critical towards, the concerns it tackles.
At a time when issues around religion are attracting massive attention, for both good and bad reasons, it is vital that people inside and ouside particular religious traditions are able to create a serious discussion about what is going on.
The ‘engaged’ view is important because much media and policy discussion is conducted by those who have little involvement with, or understanding of, religious concerns. On the other hand, there is a need for independent voices not attached to particular vested interests, whether religious or anti-religious.
We are independent, well connected, and involved in constructive conversation with a huge range of people – from evangelicals to humanists.