Don’t mix religion and politics. Don’t talk politics or religion at the dinner table. It will only cause a row.
A little while back, MPs from the governing party objected to the Archbishop of Canterbury’s stance on the Rwanda Bill. Though he is a member of the Upper House of Parliament, they saw his criticism as meddling in an area outside of his territory.
The Church of England has a part to play in the workings of the state. It’s the Established Church. Bishops sit in the House of Lords. But does that mean it mustn’t rock the boat?
I sometimes wonder what those who object to bishops and priests speaking out, know about the heart of Christianity. It’s easy to separate the Church, in all its guises – the wonderful architecture, the beautiful singing, the pomp and ceremony – from Jesus, the Jewish, radical rabbi. From Jesus the revolutionary. From Jesus’ teaching and example.
Not to mention his clashes with the religious and political establishments.
Politics is about power and influence and relationships. A perspective that says, “Everyone is of equal value” and “Love your neighbour as yourself,” might just be a force for good.
Chris Dawson