Church of England finds some sympathy for the devil as it downplays Satan in bid to modernize

The Church of England is ditching cassocks ”“ and even the Devil ”“ as its drive to modernize gathers momentum.

Vicars will be allowed to conduct communion services in more casual clothing, including jeans, after the Church agreed this weekend to review existing rules on clerical vestments.

The General Synod has also backed an alternative baptism service which leaves out mention of the Devil, in an attempt to appeal to people who have no religious background.