Christmas card from Norfolk urges government action

The Bishop of Norwich, the Dean of Norwich Cathedral and church leaders representing 111 churches across Norfolk have signed and sent a giant Christmas card (measuring 4ft by 3ft) to Theresa May asking her light the way for those fleeing violence, fear and desperation.

The giant Christmas card is part of Christian Aid’s Christmas campaign to highlight the situation of refugees in our world today.

Church leaders from Harleston to Kings Lynn, Gorleston to Sheringham, Norwich to Cromer and Attleborough to Aylsham have joined in.
The card is organised by Christian Aid and over 25 similar cards are being sent to Theresa May from areas across the country this Christmas.
Julian Bryant of Christian Aid said, ‘This was a simple way for church leaders concerned about refugees to share their concerns with the Prime Minister at Christmas. It is a great response from Norfolk churches of all kinds. Thank you Network Norfolk for promoting it. I hope Theresa May listens and takes positive action. I also hope she has a big mantlepiece.’

Christian Aid works with refugees and people fleeing violence across the world including war torn Aleppo in Syria, Iraq, the Democratic of Congo and many other countries. They also support refugees in Serbia and other countries in Europe. This Christmas card forms part of a Christmas campaign to asking people to light the way www.christianaid.org.uk/Christmas

The text inside the card:

Dear Theresa,

Will you help light the way for those fleeing violence, fear and desperation?

This Christmas 85 million people simply can’t be at home. They have been forced out by the darkness of violence and fear.

As our Prime Minister, the stories you tell about refugees carry great power and the words you use help set the tone for our conversations.
During this season of peace and goodwill, please reflect on the language you use to speak about refugees. And into the new year, please ensure your words reflect our proud tradition as a nation that welcomes those in need and your policies offer hope to those looking for a safe place to call home.

May you know the peace of Christ this Christmas.

Pictured: The Bishop of Norwich and Danny Doran Smith Chair of Transforming Norwich and Lay Pioneer Minister of St Elizabeth’s The Beacon Earlham