"Arun Arora, the bishop of Kirkstall and co-lead bishop on racial justice, said Christianity was being used as a flag of convenience by the far right; a nationalist ideology cloaking itself in religion. He added: Any attempt to co-opt Christianity to particular political agendas or ideologies should be viewed with deep suspicion. The far right has often sought to wrap itself in flags or symbols, which belong to us all, and now they are seeking to do it with Christmas that should be resisted."
"Anderson Jeremiah, the bishop of Edmonton, said he had written to parishes across the capital to encourage diverse congregations at a time when divisive figures were promoting the false, toxic premise that British identity equals Christian identity equals white European identity. The perception that the decline of Christianity in Britain was a direct result of immigration was misplaced, he wrote in his letter."
The Church of England released a 43-second video titled 'Christmas Isn't Cancelled' featuring more than 20 people, from the archbishop of York to schoolchildren, stating that Christmas belongs to everyone and everyone is welcome. The video responds to a carols event organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson and the Unite the Kingdom event. Senior church figures warned against Christian nationalism and the appropriation of Christian symbols to support anti-migrant views. Rowan Williams warned of potential weaponisation and stressed the Christian message of compassion and welcome. Arun Arora and Anderson Jeremiah urged resistance to co-option and encouraged diverse congregations in parishes.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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