If we are to believe the media reports, the Christian Church is an irrelevancy for many people in today's society. For some, the only contact with the Church from year to year is the occasional baptism, wedding or funeral, and even then, more of these services are taking place without the Church being involved at all.

The last National Church Life Survey in 2001 revealed that many in society today are not openly hostile towards the Church, but rather have an attitude of apathy or- dare one say it- boredom towards what the Church stands for and offers.

The fact is that while Christ's message of love and forgiveness remains a true and gracious gift from God, many today feel that the Church has lost its ability to present this gift in a way that makes sense to them. This is a sad indictment on the Church and one that is being addressed. Many Churches are looking at fresh ways to reach out once more with the Gospel of Good News, and to make meaningful connections with society.

Easter is the high point of the Christian year. It is the time when we reflect on the death and resurrection of Jesus and the new relationship all can have with God because of those momentous events 2000 years ago. For the Church it is more than a holiday; more than a time for over- indulgence in chocolate; more than an opportunity to get to the beach.

Easter is one of the prime opportunities for the Church to say to society: This is how we understand the self-effacing humility of God and the depth of God's love for us.

For people with little or no connection with the Church but who are seeking more out of life I say: why not give the Church a chance to tell you its story? You might be surprised!

While it may not have made an immediate connection with you, its message is still the best news you will ever get: God loves us and invites us to share our lives with him.

To the Church I would say: let us redouble our efforts this Easter to make fresh connections with our society. Let us have powerful, relevant worship, an unconditional welcome for the seeker, and a passionate commitment to service to all. Let us learn to speak afresh the words of love and forgiveness to our generation.

Published: on 7th April 2004

The Most Reverend Dr Peter F Carnley AO

Archbishop of Perth and Primate of the Anglican Church in Australia