Abstract
The UK experience of family legislation is instructive of the long history and influence of Christianity. In contemporary times, however, the growth in the powers of the secular state have overtaken the powers and influence of the Church. A strongly positivist tradition in family law, developed from utilitarianism which today is strongly influenced by populism, has expanded the role of the state in providing social welfare support and adopting “family friendly” legislation. Christian values, nevertheless, are much in evidence. Organised religious groups often lack influence even though their views may be persuasive. Today, pressure groups and lobbying can prove highly effective in the political choices adopted by the govern- ment of the day.1 The main argument in the paper is that family life needs revitalising through a new relational dynamic that requires a relational culture that is capable of humanising people that will result in an enrichment of the experience of the family.
1 I am grateful to Msgr. Roland Minnerath and Judge Desmond Marrinan for their advice. Errors are my responsibility alone.