Rowan Williams and Anglican Clergy Condemn ‘Christian Nationalism’ Before Remembrance Sunday
Leaders of the Anglican Church have publicly condemned what they describe as a growing nationalist narrative that connects Christianity with exclusionary politics in the UK. They argue that such rhetoric contradicts the true spirit of Christian teaching, which emphasizes compassion and solidarity.
The statements came from several Church of England bishops, clergy, lay members, and notably from Dr Rowan Williams, the former Archbishop of Canterbury. Their comments were given in connection with a “prayer walk” held around London’s Hyde Park on the morning of November 7, organized to counter divisive narratives and highlight humane responses to immigration and social tension.
“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.
“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.”
Call for Unity and Human Dignity
Participants in the prayer walk urged people of faith to reject fear-based nationalism and to promote understanding, especially ahead of Remembrance Sunday—a day meant to honor those who sacrificed for peace rather than division.
Author’s summary: Anglican leaders, including Rowan Williams, spoke out in London against rising Christian nationalism, calling for empathy and rejection of divisive stereotypes.