Archbishop John Pastoral Message: There is no place for racism
Pastoral Message on the Dignity of Every Person
In a Pastoral Message to the clergy, consecrated men and women and lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Southwark, Archbishop John Wilson reaffirmed the conviction that "as followers of the Lord Jesus, there is no place for racism".
The Archbishop said:
Our Archdiocese is blessed with extraordinary diversity. The people in our parishes and schools reflect a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and histories. Honouring this diversity is a beautiful gift that strengthens our witness to the Gospel and enriches our shared life of faith.
In continuing to be a welcoming Church, we reject all forms of racism. This means creating communities where every person feels safe, valued, and heard. It means seeking to foster a culture of encounter and friendship where differences become opportunities for mutual understanding and growth.
I ask everyone in our Archdiocese to reflect the boundless love of Christ, and to renew their commitment to genuine welcome, and to opening their minds and hearts in service to people who are vulnerable, whatever their circumstances. The measure of the love we show to the person in need is the measure of the love we show to Christ.
May our Archdiocese continue to be a beacon of unity sustained by Christ’s commandment: to 'love one another just as I have loved you” (John 13:34)'.
You can read the full letter here, which will be made available in parishes this coming weekend (Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June 2026).
