Resources for responding to rising community tensions

Recent comments made by public figures linking migrants to crime, alongside renewed demonstrations outside hotels housing people seeking asylum, are creating fear, anxiety and division among some of our congregations and communities. These feelings are not limited to refugees or those seeking asylum, but people of many backgrounds, particularly those of global majority heritage.

In this context, we encourage ministers and congregations to:

• Reach out to those in our communities who may be feeling unsafe, anxious, or unwelcomed.
• Speak truthfully and prayerfully about the forces of division that seek to harden hearts and close doors to those perceived to be different from the majority population.
• Create visible signs of welcome and hospitality in our church spaces and worship.
• Refuse to allow fear to become normalised.

The Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT) have published an article on ways that church leaders can prepare positively for times of unrest: https://jpit.uk/positive-preparation-for-times-of-unrest. Other resources that may be helpful include:

Methodist Church guidelines on Responding to disturbances – being present as a faith leader and Advice for Major Incidents.

HOPE not Hate guide to Staying Safe amidst Far Right Violence [particularly helpful around those doing direct work with asylum projects]

Let us remember that standing in solidarity is not merely a principle we affirm, it is a practice we embody. In our worship, in our witness, and in our care for each other, our neighbours and wider community. Let us recommit ourselves to standing alongside all who are marginalised, those who suffer injustice or are under threat.

Jude Levermore, Head of Mission
Richard Armiger, Head of Ministries and Learning