A statement from the Diocese of Southwark on behalf of St Mary’s, Putney:
“We condemn racism unequivocally. It is abhorrent, unacceptable and has no place in the Church. We are deeply saddened by this situation. Our commitment to racial justice is rooted in our Christian belief that every person is made in God’s image. Treating one another with dignity and respect is a responsibility we all share.
When we learned of this matter, we took action. We first provided pastoral support to the person affected and then referred the matter through the relevant diocesan administrative process. Diocesan professionals, including members of our safeguarding team, subsequently met to consider the matter. At every step, we have kept the person affected informed of our discussions and decisions. We have also remained in contact with parish representatives to provide pastoral care and support as they fulfil their responsibilities to the Church.
Our commitment to racial justice must be reflected in our actions as well as our words. Over the coming months, we will review the lessons from this situation and consider how to strengthen anti-racism work with the parish. Our Christian faith calls us to share in one another’s suffering and to work towards healing and repair.”
