Just before Pentecost, people from churches, Churches Together groups and Christian organisations from across South London gathered near London Bridge for our Big Gathering. The theme was ‘Being Visible‘. This emerged from listening, through our Enabling Group, to churches across different denominations, who were eager to connect with one another, share ideas and explore further resources.
The gathering explored what it means for Christians to be visible in a time when Christian language and imagery are increasingly misused in public life, including by far-right groups and activists. Participants reflected on how churches can offer a better witness: one rooted in Christ’s compassion, humility, justice and love.
Speakers from Better Story: Tommy Sharpe, Poppy Sharpe and Fergus Burnett, helped resource churches, congregations and local Churches Together groups to respond with confidence and care. Better Story is a movement of Christians across the UK seeking to challenge the misuse of faith by centring Christ’s compassion and generosity in the public conversation. They shared insights from community organising, political theology, media engagement, training and prophetic public witness.
Natalie Walters, Head of Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation at the Anglican Diocese of Southwark, offered a reflection on recent events and their impact on local communities in South London. Our event took place four days after a march through London organised by the far-right. Chaplaincy support was provided by Susan Elderfield from the Archdiocese of Southwark, and the gathering was chaired by Bishop Philip Tagoe, Regional Bishop for Greater London, Apostolic Pastoral Congress.
Alongside input from speakers, there was space for small group discussion, questions and shared learning. Church leaders and members considered practical ways to witness to God’s love in South London, strengthen relationships across traditions, and support one another in visible, hopeful Christian presence.
The event’s connection with A Million Acts of Hope gave the gathering a particular resonance. It was a reminder that hope is not only something we proclaim, but something we embody together in conversation, in courage, in community, and in the everyday work of loving our neighbours.
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