Rowan Williams and Anglican Clergy Condemn ‘Christian Nationalism’
Leaders of the Anglican Church have publicly opposed a rising nationalist narrative in the UK that links Christianity with exclusionary politics. They argue this narrative contradicts the core values of their faith.
These remarks came from various Anglican figures, including Dr Rowan Williams, a former Archbishop of Canterbury, as well as Church of England bishops, clergy, and laypeople. They coincided with a “prayer walk” held on 7 November around London's Hyde Park.
Prayer Walk to Challenge Christian Nationalism
The event aimed to raise awareness ahead of Remembrance Sunday by speaking out against the Christian nationalist agenda. Organizers also intended to address the growing division surrounding immigration in the UK.
“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, who could not attend but shared a statement for the occasion.
He emphasized the need to view migrants not as threats but as vulnerable people seeking safety for themselves and their families.
“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.”
Summary
Anglican leaders, including Rowan Williams, urge society to reject exclusionary Christian nationalism and extend compassion toward migrants, reinforcing the true values of their faith.
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