Rowan Williams and Anglican Clergy Criticize Christian Nationalism
Anglican Church leaders have condemned a nationalist narrative that co-opts Christianity, describing it as fundamentally opposed to core Christian values. These views were expressed by key figures including Rowan Williams, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, as well as bishops, clergy, and lay members.
Prayer Walk in Hyde Park
On 7 November, coinciding with a "prayer walk" in London's Hyde Park, the group aimed to publicly oppose the rise of Christian nationalism. This event took place ahead of Remembrance Sunday and sought to confront the growing division around immigration issues 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 Rowan Williams, who, although unable to attend, issued 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."
Addressing Polarization
The event and statements highlight concerns about the negative stereotyping of migrants and emphasize compassion and justice as central to Christian teaching.
Summary: Anglican leaders, including Rowan Williams, call for rejecting Christian nationalism and urge compassion toward migrants, stressing faith values over divisive stereotypes.