Tommy Robinson, a former leader of the far-right movement, claims to have found Jesus Christ while in prison. This revelation has sparked a debate among churches about how to respond to the growing influence of Christian nationalism within the far-right. Some church members advocate for a strong stance against racism and xenophobia, while others fear that any direct response might amplify the far-right's message.
Rikki Doolan, a minister at the Spirit Embassy church, witnessed Robinson's conversion to Christianity. He believes that Robinson's newfound faith is genuine, as evidenced by his public statements and actions. However, others question the sincerity of Robinson's conversion, suggesting that it may be more of a cultural or political strategy.
The far-right has been increasingly using Christian symbolism and rhetoric in their rallies, including the 'Unite the Kingdom' event, which drew a small but dedicated crowd. Some attendees expressed anti-migrant sentiments, and there were calls for 'protecting communities from illegal immigration'. Despite the presence of crosses and flags, the event lacked overt political discourse, indicating a potential shift towards a more subtle approach.
The Church of England (C of E) faces a dilemma in addressing Christian nationalism. Some bishops, like Arun Arora, advocate for a strong stance against Islamophobia and anti-migrant sentiments, while others, like Sarah Mullally, are cautious about engaging in a political battle with hard-right politicians. The C of E's response to Robinson's events has been mixed, with some clergy calling for a firm response, while others have taken a more nuanced approach.
The rise of Christian nationalism is seen as a continuation of debates about identity, sovereignty, and social cohesion. Some church leaders believe that faith can provide a stabilizing influence in a politically divided society. However, others argue that ignoring Christian nationalism is unwise, as it is not a harmless phenomenon. The C of E must navigate a delicate balance between engaging with right-wing activists and maintaining its traditional role as a church for the comfortable middle class.
