Church leaders' statement ahead of Brexit

Leaders of 10 British Church denominations and networks have released a joint statement regarding the UK's imminent exit from the European Union. It was drawn up by the Joint Public Issues Team, made up of the Baptist Union, the Church of Scotland, the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church, working together for peace and justice. Other signatories included Quakers in Britain, Churches Together in Wales' Working Party on Wales and Europe, and the Council of African and Caribbean Churches UK.

They urged that after Brexit the UK should support the poorest and most maginalised and work towards a just economy "that enables the flourishing of all life". It should offer sanctuary to refugees and "be intolerant of those who hate because of a person's race or nationality". They called for international cooperation on addressing the climate crisis, global inequality and conflict. "We pray for the people of the UK, for our leaders, and for the whole of Europe, as we mark this significant moment together" said the statement. Brexit exposed deep divisions in British society, and the Churches call now for a move towards a sense of common purpose and choosing "to act with kindness, humility and respect towards those with whom we disagree". On this matter, political leaders were called upon "to set an example".

In addition, the Church leaders wrote to other European Churches and Church organisations in Europe to assure them that existing relationships will continue. The Churches continue to have responsibilities towards EU citizens living in the UK and British citizens living in the EU who face uncertainty in the months ahead.

Full statement at:
www.jointpublicissues.org.uk/statement-from-church-leaders-ahead-of-31st-january-2020/