Community is Our Superpower! Rt Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin in Conversation with CAPS’ Director

CAPS Activists – A Voice for PLWH in the Church

CAPS’ Director Vincent attended the London Churches Refugee Fund & Network Annual Lecture at St. Pancras Church, Euston, in June. The Bishop of Dover Rt Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin, began the main address by quoting from Ephesians 2: “You are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household…with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone.” The Prime Minister was badly advised when he warned that we risk becoming “an Island of strangers” she said. Rather, we are called to work together to ensure “the flourishing of all.” She used the example of sharing food as a means to build community. People who share food cannot be strangers for long. In community our “horizons are widened” we are able “to look beyond ourselves” she said. Bishop Rose challenged us to “intentionally become courageous advocates on behalf of those who are most vulnerable.…for all those seeking sanctuary….Being part of a community fills us with confidence going forward, removing fear, fear of the other has no part in a community….we must deliberately challenge those around us who are using the language of fear.” Already familiar with CAPS work, The Bishop & Dr Manning shared conversation about the needs of migrants living with HIV and the relevance of faith. For Bishop Rose’s talk or to make a donation see lcrf.org.uk (see also ‘Welcoming the Stranger’).