The Christian-Muslim Forum (CMF) organised a workshop on The Far Right and the Role of the Churches. Subtitled “inter faith dialogue for transformational change” it took place 31 March at the Anglican Chapel in Arnos Vale Cemetery. Main speaker was Bristol-based Revd Dr Helen Paynter, author of The Church, the far right and the claim to Christianity

Revd Heather Paynter presents her work / alt text

Revd Dr Helen Paynter presents her groundbreaking work to the forum before heading off on a well deserved Sabbatical.

She spoke first about how some churches and specific individual christians contribute to the problem. She cited Calvin Robinson and Rikki Doolan. She said she avoids generalising about the motives of people who attend Tommy Robinson rallies, but is very interested in who gets handed the microphone. This includes people like Cei Dewar , UKIP leader Nick Tenconi, and Brian Tamaki

Precise terminology is essential, she said. “Far right” doesn’t just mean anyone politically to the right of you. The Dutch political scientist Caz Mudde defines “far right” as “movements which pose a threat to liberal democracy”. He then subdivides that into “radical right” (which threatens liberal democracy, protection of minorities, speech and worship) and the “extreme right” which is a threat to democracy itself.

Similarly “Christian Nationalism” does not just mean being both christian and patriotic. It’s a whole cultural framework - myths, traditions, symbols, narratives and value systems - that advocates a fusion of Christianity with English civic life. One could add “whiteness “to that. It’s more than just religion: it’s as much ethnic and political as it is religious.

She points to a cynical mutual co-option of influential christians who want power with political actors who desire credibility.

She spoke of the “thin Theologies” of those who use slogans or symbols, but with no real content, subtlety or depth. But warned also of those with “thick Theology”: careful, nuanced, thoughtfully argued cases. One cannot respond to that with slogans; it demands respectful engagement. “Thick theology” needs our theologians to respond in kind.

Bath’s Imam Mohammed Gamal gave an appreciative response.

Far-right narrative thrives on division, he said, and our response has to be of connection. He spoke of events in Bath after the 2019 Christchurch bombing, when people of many faiths came to hold vigil outside the mosque, and an atmosphere of solidarity replaced the sense of fear and vulnerability. He quoted the Prophet who said “The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion and sympathy are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever”. He stressed the need for contact and connections: “I see no other solution.”

Imam Mohammed Gamal was the second speaker / alt text

Dr Mohammed Gamal, Imam of Bath Mosque, thanked Dr Paynter and stressed the need for contact and connection

We then discussed in groups how to replace despair with hope, what narratives would look like and the role of faith groups. The CMF will produce a report based on the four regional workshops.

Exterior in dusk and moonlight of Anglican chapel / alt text

The meeting was held in the beautiful Arnos Vale cemetery Anglican chapel.