broad church

1. A label referring to a group of 19th-century English theologians who adhered to some practices of the Church of England but disregarded other elements of the Church, such as doctrine and liturgical practice. Primarily heard in UK. The broad church movement in 17th-century England may have helped shape the more liberal views and practices of modern-day Christianity. I'm not surprised that the broad church movement rejected that narrow interpretation of the Bible. Did the Oxford movement's strict emphasis on rituals give rise to the liberal broad church movement?

2. A group or organization composed of various types of people with differing views, opinions, or philosophies. Primarily heard in UK. The Independent Party is a broad church as its members hold wildly differing opinions on how to best solve the problems facing society today. That organization is no broad church, you know. I doubt they'll welcome you challenging their fundamental values. My grandfather founded this group to be a broad church that accepts people of all religions.

a broad church

BRITISH

You call an organization, group, or area of activity a broad church when it includes a wide range of opinions, beliefs, or styles. The movement is presently a very broad church, comprising, amongst others, trade unions, the church and the business community. Rock music in France is a very broad church indeed.

a broad ˈchurch

(British English) an organization that accepts a wide range of opinions