We! An Endangered Species?

About the Book

'Endangered Species' is defined as 'that portion of humanity which has developed a greater power to control its own destiny.' 'The world population explosion' is found to be limited mainly to six countries. The developed world is not even replacing itself. In Britain there is a rising problem of infertility but the introduction of the Birth Control Pill in 1961 and of the Abortion Law in 1987 have had a dramatic effect. The break-up of family life and the practice of homosexuality have contributed. The decline has affected the Welfare State, Education, the National Health Service, the Church and the care of young people, all of which are seen as visions in danger of being lost. The problem in the Church is seen as a microcosm of the larger world. The author finds himself as part of the story, both in his education and in his medical history, as benefiting from the visions. In his ministry in the Methodist Church he has also been caught up in the mind-set that has helped to produce the problem.

Finally the issue is examined in the light of Christian teaching. The command 'Be fruitful and multiply' has become 'Be careful and divide!' The lifestyle we so much value has become a threat to its own continuance. We see the centrality of the Cross in finding an answer.

Aims.

The aim is to awaken people to the real joy and purpose of family life and the importance of children. It is hoped that readers will take away a fresh vision of God's wonderful plan for the continuance and development of humanity and a new sense of responsibility for their own part in that plan.

Target Reader

The main target reader is in the reproductive years of his or her life. As the decline is most serious in the professional classes, students are particularly important. Vital decisions about life-style need to be taken at an early age if child bearing is to be a feasible proposition.

The secondary target is those in society who have a real social concern. Cries for fair-trade and debt relief will be fruitless if we drain the poorer countries of their finest talent to meet our need.

The issue is important for the general public and particularly leaders because policies need to be formulated that will support the family. A sea-change is needed in the popular view of family size.

About the Author

Kenneth Griffin was born in 1920, worked first in offices before serving in the Friends Ambulance Unit during the War. After a short period as a Lay Pastor he became a probationer Methodist Minister, trained at Handsworth College, Birmingham and gained a London B.D. while serving in circuit. He was ordained in 1951 and has served in a wide variety of Methodist Circuits. As Social Responsibility Secretary in two Districts he has taken a special interest in family matters. From the house groups which he led with his wife, Audrey, many have entered the ministry or taken up active lay service in the church and society. They have a wide circle of overseas friends. He and Audrey live in Swansea and have three adopted children and a growing number of great grandchildren