Black Church leaders make political history

On a cold yet brilliantly sunny day Black Church leaders from around England gathered in Clapham for a momentous occasion.. Never before in British history had Church leaders representing hundreds of thousands of parishoners, collectively declared that civic political engagement must be encouraged at every church.

To some this statement of intent by the Black led church may not seem like earth shattering news, but there were many in the room including Bishop Powell, Bishop J Aldred, and Dr David Muir, who knew better.

They would readily acknowledge that for many years, and for a multitude of reasons, church leaders focused on spiritual and pastorial care, and whilst largely ignoring main stream politics. “ That’s not our business”, too many would declare.

But not any more. Now more than ever leaders recognize the kalidscope of social and racial issues which demand a political response.

Pastor Agu Irukwu of the Redeemed Christian Church of God who , twice annually convenes a single audience of 40,000members, stated:

Politically, the Black Church has been a sleeping giant. That giant has now awoken and we will confront the challenges that our communities face.”

Speaking in support of community activism Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo representing one of the largest churches in the country, stated:

Its simply not enough we have Black councillors and Black MP’s for politics to work well we all have be involved.”

The catylist for the historic gathering was the official launch of the Black Church manifesto, written by Dr David Muir and Pastor Ade Omooba, which sets out the leaderships view on areas such as education, health and the criminal justice system. One of the biggest moves for direct political involvement is the use of scripture . In their manifesto on the topic of prisons and mass incarceration of Black people, they site (Matthew 25:35-36)

For I was hungry and gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, and I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me."

For those tens of thousands who attend church, this guidance using scriptures gives greater meaning.

The Church manifesto also explicitly states it seeks to work with OBV, to target a million people from African and Caribbean background to register to vote.

For those of us who were there, this truly was a great day with an initiative that has truly found its time.

Simon Woolley