Rowan Williams and Anglican clergy decry ‘Christian nationalism’ ahead of Remembrance Sunday

Rowan Williams and Anglican Clergy Condemn “Christian Nationalism” Before Remembrance Sunday

Senior figures of the Anglican Church have voiced opposition to what they describe as a rising nationalist interpretation of Christianity in the United Kingdom. They argue that such narratives contradict the central values of their faith.

Former Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams, alongside bishops, clergy, and lay members of the Church of England, made these remarks in connection with a “prayer walk” held in Hyde Park, London, on 7 November. The event aimed to denounce the growing alignment between nationalism and Christianity, and to promote unity and compassion before 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, who could not attend the walk but sent a statement in support.
“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 walk’s organizers said their goal was to confront the divisive rhetoric surrounding immigration in the UK and reaffirm the Christian commitment to compassion and justice.

Author’s Summary

Anglican leaders, including Rowan Williams, publicly reject the rise of nationalist narratives within UK Christianity, urging empathy and resistance to stereotypes before Remembrance Sunday.

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The Catholic Herald The Catholic Herald — 2025-11-07

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