July 10, 2009

Methodists banned from joining BNP


by David Masters

The Methodist Church has banned its members from joining the British National Party.

A resolution passed this week by the annual Methodist Conference makes it the first UK church to ban BNP membership for church members and employees.

“No member of the Church can also be a member of a political party whose constitution, aims or objectives promote racism,” the resolution declares.

“This specifically includes, but is not solely limited to, the British National Party.”

Rev Sylvester Deigh, who proposed the motion, said: “We must be clear that racism is a denial of the Gospel.

“An openness to all people, regardless of nationality, is at the heart of Methodist identity.”

Although it strongly condemns racism, the motion holds that “those who support racist parties are also God’s children, and in need of love, hope and redemption.”

Supporters of the resolution emphasised that no one will be banned from attending church, only from being a Methodist church member.

“We are taking a very firm stance. We’re saying that racism is wrong, that it’s evil, that it’s incompatible with Christianity,” said Methodist spokesperson Tony Scott.

“On the other hand, as churches we are open to all. Christ called us to love the sinners and he came to heal the sick rather than the healthy.

“So it’s not a question of turning people away from the doors of churches or denying communion to people or any pastoral care to anybody.”

He added: “It’s important for the church and Christians to take a stand in the face of parties like [the BNP].”

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One Response to “Methodists banned from joining BNP”

  1. Rayatcov on July 11th, 2009 6:58 pm

    Another good Christian edict.
    Also, if you are going to ban members of the BNP what are you going to do about the ones who are not members but support them financially and vote for them.
    Is there any difference and how will you tell the difference. Could be interesting.

    Another question is, why is it OK to accept MEPs from Sinn Fein, remembering that they have planted bombs. Have murdered members of the police or the armed forces. Have attempted to assassinate a Prime Minister, members of the Government and members of the Royal Family. Have stabbed people in the heart, gouged out their eyes or shot them in the kneecaps. Have smuggled guns and mortars, or formed and maintained an illegal army.
    Quite why you are more concerned by the presence of Nick Griffin as an MEP, who to my understanding has only passed an opinion and harmed no one, than the unrepentant terrorist Gerry Adams and co: is utterly bemusing.

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