Rowan Williams and Anglican Clergy Criticize Christian Nationalism Before Remembrance Sunday
Leaders of the Anglican Church have raised concerns about a rising nationalist narrative linked to Christianity in the UK, which they argue contradicts the core values of their faith. This message was shared by various officials, including a former Archbishop of Canterbury, bishops, clergy, and lay members.
The statements were released to coincide with a "prayer walk" conducted around Hyde Park in London on 7 November. The event aimed to speak out against Christian nationalism and to address growing divisions over immigration issues in the country ahead of Remembrance Sunday.
“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. Although he could not attend the walk, he shared this 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."
The event organizers emphasized the need to counter damaging stereotypes and promote empathy toward migrants and refugees, highlighting the injustice in blaming whole communities for individual acts.
The walk and accompanying statements underline the Anglican Church's call for unity and compassion in the face of growing social and political polarization.
Summary: Anglican leaders, including Rowan Williams, condemn the rise of Christian nationalism in the UK, urging empathy and unity over divisive and harmful immigration stereotypes.