Speaking at an Advent reception for religious leaders last week in Downing Street, the UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, explained how he was struck by the fact that “the Christian new year doesn’t begin with the joy of Christmas Day, but with this darker season of waiting and hoping”. “It reminds me that the Church is not only there in moments of celebration, but for many in times of darkness and difficulty as well,” he said.
While not a Christian himself, Sir Keir said he knew “how powerful Christian faith can be, and its potential to be an agent of transformation”. He also explained that he wanted his Government to “support that work you’re already doing, partner with you, and learn from your experience on the ground, every single day”. He had been particularly impressed by the response of UK churches to last summer’s riots and the way that churches supported those with mental health issues.
Sir Keir is the first self-professed atheist to serve as UK Prime Minister, but a large proportion of his cabinet are said to be practising Christians.
Read the full story in the Church Times here