The Church of England is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to racial justice, with clergy in London being encouraged to actively promote antiracism in their sermons. This move comes as senior church figures unlock substantial funding to boost diversity initiatives across the capital's Anglican community.
Funding for Inclusion Work in the Capital
The Diocese of London, which encompasses more than 400 parishes and 18 boroughs north of the River Thames, is set to receive £730,000 in funding from the Church Commissioners. This financial injection is earmarked for the three-year Racial Justice Priority (RJP) project, designed to enhance inclusion work within the church's structures and practices.
It is important to note that this funding is separate from the £100 million that the Church of England has pledged for Project Spire, a broader initiative aimed at addressing the institution's historic links to the transatlantic slave trade through a fund dedicated to healing, repair, and justice.
A Theological Imperative for Racial Justice
The Right Rev Dr Anderson Jeremiah, the Bishop of Edmonton and the Diocese of London's lead bishop on racial justice, emphasised the theological foundations of this work. He highlighted that diverse congregations across London reflect the Anglican presence in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean—a direct legacy of colonial history.
"We want racial justice to inform our missional, theological, and church practices—treating each other as created in the image of God is central to our wider Christian faith," Jeremiah stated. He elaborated that this initiative aims to integrate racial justice into various aspects of church life, including Bible studies, baptismal and confirmation preparations, and, notably, sermons.
The bishop explained that the goal is to provide resources that enable clergy to engage with the challenges facing the church through the lens of racial justice, thereby fostering a deeper sense of belonging for all congregants.
Practical Applications of the RJP Funding
Lisa Adjei, the head of the Racial Justice Priority project for the diocese, outlined how the £730,000 will be utilised. Key areas of focus include educational initiatives in both churches and Church of England schools, particularly concerning the links between church buildings and transatlantic slavery.
Additionally, funding will support churches in aiding refugees and asylum seekers, promoting diversity in leadership roles, and providing "theologically informed" unconscious bias training for parochial parish councils. Adjei stressed that antiracist practices in education, representation, structures, and governance have been identified as critical components of the RJP.
"This comes back to our theology, to who we are as the church, which is about loving our neighbour," Adjei remarked. She added that the initiative aims to demonstrate that faith and racial justice can coexist harmoniously, regardless of external political pressures.
Addressing Controversy and Moving Forward
The RJP project emerges against a backdrop of debate within the church, particularly concerning Project Spire. Some conservative figures have argued that such funds divert resources from the church's "core obligations." However, the new Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, recently defended Project Spire, describing it as "rooted in the Christian call to repentance, reconciliation, and, above all, hope."
Mullally reassured that Project Spire does not diminish support for parish ministry or clergy, noting that the Church Commissioners' backing for dioceses and parishes continues to grow. She drew inspiration from historical anti-slavery campaigners like Olaudah Equiano, underscoring the church's ongoing commitment to justice.
Bishop Jeremiah expressed hope that the RJP would serve as a catalyst for additional funding bids aimed at racial justice work. "Our faith in Jesus Christ compels us to work towards equity and fairness for all," he said. "It's about how we counter the far-right narrative and create a sense of belonging for everyone."
Lisa Adjei acknowledged potential pushback but remained resolute. "If we were to set our focus on potential pushback and dissatisfaction we probably wouldn't start, but, because we're compelled by the love of God, even in the face of resistance, we press on," she affirmed. The diocese plans to continue engaging in conversations with those who may disagree, ensuring that the pursuit of racial justice remains a central tenet of its mission.
