Archbishop of Wales, Andrew John, revealed plans for a major Church summit to address the issue of river pollution.

At one of the largest meetings of its kind, more than 70 people from all around the UK, including farmers, water industry representatives, environmentalists, and academics, will gather in November for the Restoring Welsh Rivers conference, with the aim of discussing strategies to improve water quality.

During his presidential address to the governing body of the Church in Wales today (September 4), the Archbishop warned that the task of restoring rivers is a "complex matter" involving "competing demands".

He emphasised the importance of joint action and communication, stating: "Our intention is to create agreement about the principles and direction of travel required and commit to ongoing conversation where or, if, complete agreement is not possible."

Responding to questions about the church's involvement in such secular issues, Mr John said: "We don’t just sing hymns on Sunday!

"A church which is truly radical in its engagement with the world will address critical issues whether climate change, AI or poverty and war."

He also highlighted that the summit will encourage church action to help communities engage locally adding: "But, of course, we are better together."

Drawing on the spirit of collaboration, he spotlighted the "extraordinary efforts" of athletes from the Refugee Olympic team at the recent Paris Summer Games.

He said: "Each of the refugees have spoken of their gratitude that others helped them and made their journeys possible.

"Stories like theirs are a reminder that engagement across the divides, notwithstanding some real and important political challenges, can bring us closer together."

The Archbishop also highlighted the importance of cooperation within the international Anglican Communion, and encouraged its member churches to be prepared to assist in restoring "life, peace and hope" to Gaza.

He stated that unity is not just an aspiration but "of the essence of the church" and argued for firm teamwork "in prayer, engagement and in mission."

He urged the same spirit of collaboration to be applied within the Church’s Ministry and Mission Areas, highlighting new ventures like the appointment of an outdoor chaplain in Bro Eryri, aimed to connect with the high influx of visitors to Yr Wyddfa and the national park annually.

The Archbishop spoke encouragingly of the Church’s Growth Fund, a £100m fund designated for outreach projects over the next decade.

He said that bids to the fund need to be "strategic, deliverable, accountable and challenging."

He added, "We ought to feel the discomfort of a church that is trying new things and breaking new ground."