Church leaders in Sutton have recently released this joint statement:

“Recent news coverage of the inhumane brutality leading to the murder of Mr George Floyd in the United States of America have once again drawn public attention to the ongoing evil of the systemic racism that continues to cause incalculable harm across the world.

“We are appalled at the awful events in Minneapolis and the video footage of the death of George Floyd. Such discrimination and treatment of a human being is abhorrent and in complete contrast to the example set by the life and teachings of Christ.

“Let us be clear: racism is an affront to God. It is born out of ignorance, and must be eradicated. We all bear the responsibility and must play our part to eliminate this scourge on humanity. The spotlight is not only shining on 'them over there' but also on us here in our own settings.

“We believe that God is not a neutral observer in matters of justice, and hence we stand with our brothers and sisters from the Black and other Minority Communities and recognise we haven’t listened carefully enough and at times our words and actions whether conscious or unconsciously expressed have contributed to the racism that is still prevalent in our own society.

“As Christian Leaders in this Borough we want to acknowledge this and commit to ongoing Change. We need to take a stand with those who face this deep-rooted injustice. We need to do more to listen and learn from their perspective.

“We believe God has created us in his image and all people should be treated with respect, dignity and value irrespective of race or colour.

“We pray for justice, peace on our streets and in our communities and eventual reconciliation. We pray for every church leader serving a hurting world. We pray for unity and an outpouring of God's love, grace and wisdom over our Church family overseas and at home.”