There is an increase in the use of the St George’s and Union flags and the promotion of Christian Nationalism online and through public marches. There are also many instances of the red cross of the St George’s flag being painted onto roundabouts, zebra crossings and bus stops, amongst other things. While some aspects of these campaigns may attempt to affirm positive values and purport merely to promote patriotism, others are accompanied by rhetoric that has caused distress and fear for many and created divisions in communities.
Coventry has a clear call to reconciliation rooted in the story of our cathedral and expressed through the Community of the Cross of Nails. We have produced a resource to help Christians engage thoughtfully and faithfully with these complex issues—and with those who promote them—rooted in Christ’s call to love our neighbour and seek truth with compassion. (1 John 4:7 & 8) It is hoped it will help promote understanding and reconciliation.
Bishop Sophie was keen to produce a resource to support and equip those serving in our parishes and chaplaincies for good and positive engagement where possible.