THE Church of England “should model a healthy sense of patriotism” and explain why the flag of St George can still be a sign of unity, a paper to be discussed by the General Synod in York next month says.
A call for Christians to promote national unity in a time of polarisation, and to “[cherish] what is characteristic about England and its people”, is among the national and international issues to be considered at the meeting.
Among other papers published on Thursday was “Hope for All Creation: A theological response to the environmental crises”, a new teaching document from the House of Bishops produced by the Church of England’s Faith and Order Commission. It suggests a theological framework for responding to climate change, drawing from the Anglican tradition and the life and worship of the Church.
The Synod will also receive an update from the Church’s Net Zero carbon programme on progress towards the target of reaching net zero by 2030.
The Synod is also preparing to give final approval to the introduction of a new annual Festival of Creation in Christ. A further liturgical change due for final approval is the introduction of an annual commemoration of the 21 martyrs of Libya, referring to the group of Christian men who were killed for their faith in Christ by ISIS terrorists ten years ago.
Elsewhere, the Synod will discuss the Trust and Trustworthiness project, carried out over almost five years. Motions brought by individual members and dioceses include those on looked-after children and care-leavers; neurodivergence; Israel and Palestine; and the Church’s response to same-sex relationships.
Further, there will be an update on safeguarding work from the new lead bishop for safeguarding, the Bishop of Tewkesbury, the Rt Revd Robert Springett.
The Bishop of Leicester, the Rt Revd Martyn Snow, who chairs the Church of England’s Bishops’ Working Group for Promoting Unity in our Nation, writes in his paper on expressions of patriotism: “While some churches have been reluctant to fly the St George’s flag in the current climate, others have taken the opportunity to explain why the flag can still be a sign of unity” [Comment, 17 April].
He continues: “Parish churches can play a very significant role in hosting community celebrations. And there is no reason why these celebrations should not focus on pride in our nation — as long as this is done in a way which includes everybody, is honest about our history, and does not seek to be triumphalist.
“Sporting events, royal anniversaries, and celebrations of inspiring saints and historic figures can all be included in a church’s ‘social calendar.’
“While some churches have been reluctant to fly the St George’s flag in the current climate, others have taken the opportunity to explain why the flag can still be a sign of unity. Appropriate explanation and interpretation can draw on St George’s background and martyrdom, as well as highlighting the importance of symbols and rituals in uniting people. As the established church, we should model a healthy sense of patriotism
“This is also a place for telling a truer national story. There are many competing narratives about our history. Our history is complex, and we need an honest conversation about both the good and the evil — what parts of our history we want to continue to shape us, and what parts we want to learn from.
“This is not about rewriting history but revealing it — those whose voices have been left out, the misunderstandings that have taken hold. A healthier story would have three characteristics. First, it would be honest: not glossing over the wrongdoing and injustice carried out in the nation’s name or within its bounds, but also celebrating our nation’s achievements and progress.
“Second, it would be particular without being exclusive: cherishing what is characteristic about England and its people, without assuming uniqueness or drawing hard lines around who truly belongs.
“Third, it would be oriented toward the common good rather than collective self-interest: it would ask not only what the nation can achieve for those within its borders, but what responsibilities it bears toward the wider world.”
Asked by the Church Times about the notion of “healthy patriotism” on Thursday, Bishop Snow said: “I do think we can have a good debate about how we enable everybody to contribute to the life of this nation.”
He said that, while “I know that politicians do sometimes try to distil that essence [of what is Englishness],” this was not fruitful, and “the role that the Church has to play” is to allow people to discuss how everyone can “contribute to the life of this nation”.