Tommy Robinson’s conversion to Christianity has “rejoiced” the Church of England’s co-lead on racial justice, but he has challenged the activist to comprehend the Christian teaching of compassion.
Kirkstall Bishop Rt Revd Arun Arora told The Guardian that there might be a “battle as to what Christianity is” in the coming years. Robinson’s carol session, which was advertised as “putting Christ back into Christmas,” drew about 1,000 people to London earlier this month.
It was a small portion of the over 150,000 people who attended the UTK event in September, which featured cross-wielding masses, worship music, and prayers.
Bishop Arora stated that the far-right leader needed to learn about the principles of justice and neighborly love.
In contrast to Robinson’s anti-immigrant activity, Bishop Arora joined clergy in his diocese of Leeds in interacting with demonstrators outside refugee hotels in the city and providing cake as part of “positive patriotism.”
In order to convey that Jesus’ love was for everyone, the Diocese of Leeds created a poster campaign featuring a nativity scene at a bus stop prior to Robinson’s carols.
During the week before the service, a Church of England video declaring that “Christmas isn’t cancelled” was also posted; it has received two million views on social media.
In September, Pastor Rikki Doolan exclusively told Premier Christian Radio that Robinson was “led to Christ” while inside.
