CofE issues prayer for peace amid debate over Christianity and nationalism
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
The Church of England has issued a prayer for national unity amid growing debate over the use of Christian symbols and language at political demonstrations.
The prayer, released by the Church’s newly formed Bishops’ Working Group for Promoting Unity in our Nation, asks for God’s protection from “the perils of division and hatred” and gives thanks for those who “build up our common life”.
Its publication came shortly before a large London rally organised by Tommy Robinson, which drew tens of thousands of people to the capital over the weekend.
Some demonstrators carried wooden crosses and chanted “Christ is king”, while gospel music and public acts of worship also featured during the event.
The march took place alongside a separate pro-Palestinian demonstration. The Metropolitan Police said both events “proceeded largely without significant incident”, although a number of arrests were made.
Martyn Snow, who leads the bishops’ working group, said the Church believed it had an important role in encouraging peace and reconciliation during a period of national tension.
“We know that these are anxious and fearful times for many in our country, which makes the Church’s calling for peace and reconciliation all the more pressing,” he said.
“I believe that we have much, as a country, for which we can be proud; much for which we can be grateful; and much to look forward to, if we learn from one another, respect one another, and work together for our shared future.”
The rally has intensified discussion among Christians about the relationship between faith, nationalism and politics.
A recent poll by Premier Christian News suggested around a quarter of British Christians identify as nationalists or are sympathetic to nationalist ideas.
During his speech, Robinson referenced the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and urged supporters to become more politically active ahead of the next general election.
“Are you ready for the battle of Britain? 2029 we have an election,” he told the crowd.
“We’re not asking anyone to go out and fight, but this is the most important moment in our generation.
“If we don’t send a message in our next election, if you don’t register to vote, if you don’t get involved, if you don’t become activists, we are going to lose our country for ever.”
He added: “We have to get political, we have to get involved. I’m not going to tell you which political party you need to join.
“I don’t care if it’s Reform, if it’s Advance, or it’s Restore, or it’s the Conservative Party. We have to locally get involved in politics.”
The Church of England’s intervention comes amid wider concern among some church leaders that Christian imagery and language are increasingly being drawn into political and nationalist movements.
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