Bishop of Leicester addresses flag-related intimidation concerns
Church of England bishops have voiced their rejection of "the use of Christian symbols" by people trying to intimidate others
Church of England bishops have voiced their rejection of "the use of Christian symbols" by people trying to intimidate others, in the face of community anxiety about the flying of St George's and Union flags.
The widespread flying of such flags, following an online campaign called Operation Raise The Colours last year, became contentious and several local authorities removed them from public infrastructure.
Some politicians decried the removals, while others claimed the increased number being flown was a result of xenophobia or racism.
A statement from a group of bishops formed to support the Church of England in "navigating the rise of extremism", has insisted the flags are a symbol of unity and inclusion and "cannot be owned by any one group or cause".
A curate in the Diocese of Oxford submitted a question on the matter to the Church's General Synod - known as the Church's parliament - which is meeting this week.
Reverend Ayo Audu asked what resources had been produced for churches wanting to "respond to anxieties raised by the displaying of St George's flags and Union flags in their local communities".
In response, the Bishop of Leicester, the Right Reverend Martyn Snow, quoted part of a statement from the bishops working group.
Quoting, he said: "We reject the use of Christian symbols by those who seek to use them to intimidate others. We rejoice that the flag of St George is the national flag of England and contains a cross as a sign of our Christian heritage. This heritage should be celebrated.
"However, the flag cannot be owned by any one group or cause. Rather it is a symbol of unity, inclusion and our common life around which we all gather."
In September, Sir Keir Starmer said he is "very encouraging" of people flying national flags, but said they can be devalued when flown "purely for divisive purposes".