A Statement from Sandwell Churches Link

As we journey closely together through Sandwell Churches Link—a network of congregations rooted in the values: every life matters, everyone is welcome, and we need each other—we feel compelled, with pastoral care and love, to share concern about the cultural shifts we are witnessing in our nation. These changes weigh heavy on us, as they affect the lives of our neighbours and the witness of the church in this community.

Why the Current Climate Disquiets Us

1. The Language of Exclusion
   We hear growing calls for drastic restrictions on those seeking refuge, including the removal of vulnerable people. Such ideas deeply trouble us, for they stand at odds with Scripture’s call to compassion: “I was a stranger, and you welcomed me” (Matt 25:35).

1. Rejecting Multiculturalism
   We notice a narrative that dismisses multicultural society as a weakness, while promoting a narrow vision of national identity. Yet Sandwell prides itself in blessed diversity—with congregations from a spectrum of ethnicities, denominations, and traditions.

1. Perception of Christianity
   If churches are seen to align with exclusionary attitudes, it risks shaping public perception of Christianity as insular, controlling, or even hostile to vulnerable people—especially refugees, newcomers, or minority communities. That perception undermines our calling as salt and light, especially in our setting where food poverty, financial hardship, loneliness, and homelessness are realities we tackle together through initiatives like Jubilee Food Network, Places of Welcome, and our Clothing Bank.

Biblical Roots of Welcome & Justice

We stand by the Christian tradition that resonates deeply with the work of Sandwell Churches Link:
“Every life matters… Everyone is welcome… Injustice and inequality are to be challenged.”

Scripture reminds us: “Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt” (Exodus 22:21), and “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers” (Hebrews 13:2).

The prophets and Jesus consistently call for justice tempered with mercy, and for love especially toward the vulnerable and displaced. These convictions are not optional preferences; they are biblical mandates.

What Sandwell Churches Link Intends

Faithful to our calling, we encourage congregations to:

• Reflect prayerfully on how our views and decisions align, or conflict, with the Gospel’s ethic of welcome.

• Listen and discuss, especially with neighbours from refugee, immigrant, or minority backgrounds, about how their daily sense of belonging is affected.

• Reassert our witness as churches rooted in inclusion, action, and justice, not division.

• Speak with love: where people express sincere concerns about cultural or economic stability, let us dialogue gently, offering biblical perspectives on justice and care for the stranger.

• Pray earnestly for wisdom and discernment, that our choices may be guided by God’s Word and Spirit.

Conclusion

Sandwell Churches Link remains firmly rooted in the conviction that we are called to be a community where every life matters and everyone is welcome. Our unity as local churches, engaging deeply with the community, reflects the heart of Christ, who welcomes all.

May we continue to be a network where love transcends differences, hospitality triumphs over exclusion, and justice guided by compassion defines our shared identity.

In Christ’s service and solidarity,
Sandwell Churches Link – partnering with churches across Sandwell in mission, compassion, and unity

Vicki Richards

Chief Executive Officer

Sandwell Churches Link