With the credit crisis cutting into the potential of its $8.5 billion of assets, the Church of England plans to hire an investment director to help it get the most return on its money. The denomination has been accruing funds since it broke off from the Catholic Church in the 16th century, and the fund is used to pay pensions for its clergy and workers. Church officials say they will discourage investment of the fund in companies who produce weapons, tobacco, alcohol or gambling.