Anglican Leaders Condemn Christian Nationalism in UK
Senior figures within the Anglican Church have criticized the rise of a nationalist interpretation of Christianity in the United Kingdom, calling it fundamentally opposed to the core principles of their faith. These statements were issued in conjunction with a “prayer walk” around Hyde Park, London, on 7 November, ahead of Remembrance Sunday.
Prayer Walk to Oppose Christian Nationalist Narrative
The event aimed to challenge the growing polarization surrounding immigration and to reject the framing of migrants as hostile outsiders. Organizers hoped to use this public demonstration to promote a more compassionate understanding grounded in Christian teachings.
“It is more than time to challenge the story that every migrant approaching our shores is an unfriendly alien with unintelligible and hostile values,” said Dr Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury, who could not attend but provided a statement.
“It is essential for us to see, not enemy invaders, but vulnerable people like us, committed to finding safety for themselves and those they love. It is the height of injustice to hold communities responsible for the crimes of individuals and to market lazy, hurtful stereotypes.”
Church Voices Unite Against Division
The remarks reflect a collective concern among bishops, clergy, and laypeople within the Church of England about the impact of nationalist rhetoric on social cohesion and Christian witness in society.
Call for Compassionate Recognition
They emphasize the need to perceive migrants as human beings seeking safety and dignity rather than as threats, urging solidarity based on shared humanity and faith values.
Summary: Anglican leaders, led by former Archbishop Rowan Williams, publicly reject nationalist Christian rhetoric in the UK, urging compassion and challenging harmful stereotypes about migrants ahead of Remembrance Sunday.