A sign of welcome
21 October 2025
St John's Methodist Church, Hayfield, Derbyshire is displaying a banner that shares a message of reassurance and support to counter the growing signs of nationalism seen in some communities.
The banner proclaims that 'All are Welcome in this Place', the well-known line from Marty Haugen's hymn, 'Let us build a house' that was rereleased by the Methodist Church last month. The words of the banner are surrounded by the colours of flags from around the world. Other local churches are now also displaying the banner.
“Many of us have been concerned about the rise of anti-migrant sentiments expressed by the flags being hoisted all over the place,” commented the Revd Stephen Jay, supernumerary minister at Hayfield. “While there have been no particular incidents locally, there is a feeling that the church should make known its discontent with the current views being expressed and contrast these with our underlying attitude to welcome all people regardless of their background.”
“We need to show that there is a different viewpoint towards migrants coming to the UK and that, as a church, we seek to welcome and love the 'outsider'. We are taught this in the Old Testament and in the parable of the sheep and the goats, where we are taught to invite strangers in as if they were Christ himself.”
Other local churches are now displaying the banner, while church members and the wider local community have appreciated its offer of support, "A quick and positive response and I love it," said one, "It's great to see lots of positive, welcoming messages like this around our village. Our multiculturalism in the UK is a strength to be celebrated," said another.
“The sign is an example of our simple witness to God's gracious love and compassion to all people," says Stephen. “It reminds us that we are all in need of kindness and generosity, and that, if the world were different, it might be us seeking welcome and help from others.”
If you would like a PDF of the banner for your church, which can be to your required shape and size, please email Revd Stephen Jay here.