Statement from Bishop Rose and Archbishop Justin on the recent unrest in the United Kingdom
8 August 2024
Summer is the time of the year when many of us look forward to rest and relaxation. Sadly, this summer started with the shocking murder of three young innocent children rapidly followed by the spread of misinformation online about the perpetrator’s identity and sparking a wave of violent unrest on our streets and in our communities.
I am sure that like Archbishop Justin and I, you too are aware of the anxiety being whipped up and the division being sown by those who would like us to believe that the targeting of some in our community is the best way to keep our children and ourselves safe.
Last night’s action by thousands of counter-protestors up and down the United Kingdom was a resounding demonstration of the power of peace and our common humanity. Their message was clear, ‘we will stand together, and we will not allow our communities to be driven by hate.’
This too must be the overwhelming message from the Church; that we will stand for love and stand up for justice. ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.’ (Matthew 5:9)
We are a people of prayer and a people of hope. Together let us continue to hold in our prayers all those in the eye of the storm – the families of the children brutally murdered and those in the emergency services who are on the front line.
Let us pray too for courage; not to be silent onlookers but to be ready to show that we are one human race, made in the image of God irrespective of colour and creed, and that we belong together. In the same way let us be visibly present where we can so that those in our local communities who might be worried are reassured.
Please keep yourselves and others safe and don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local church, Archdeacon or members of the Diocesan Office team if you need additional support.
In all that you do, be safe and may the peace of Christ be yours this summer.
Yours in the service of Christ
The Rt Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin
Bishop of Dover
The Most Revd & Rt Hon Justin Welby
Archbishop of Canterbury