Churches in England are being encouraged to fly the St George’s flag as a way of promoting a more inclusive and positive form of patriotism.

Writing in The Times ahead of St George’s Day later this month, the Bishop of Leicester, Rt Rev Martyn Snow, said he wanted to encourage church leaders who may feel hesitant to display the flag because of its association in recent years with what he described as “narrow nationalism".

However, he argued that symbols can change meaning depending on how they are used, and said churches could help “enrich” the meaning of the flag by reclaiming it.

“Symbols are not fixed,” he said, adding that the St George’s Cross has held different meanings throughout history, from the Crusades to sport, and more recently, political movements.

For Bishop Martyn, churches should embrace what he calls “healthy patriotism”, which should include an honest acknowledgement of a nation’s past, an openness to others, and a focus on the common good.

He also pointed to the story of St George, widely believed to have been a Roman soldier of Middle Eastern origin, whose legacy is associated with courage and sacrifice rather than national identity.

The bishop said churches could play a role in reshaping how the flag is perceived, particularly if it is accompanied by “generous hospitality” and care for those on the margins of society.

His comments come amid wider debate about national identity and the use of flags in public life. Supporters argue that displaying the flag can be a positive expression of belonging, while critics say it can sometimes be linked to discriminatory political messaging.

Bishop Martyn said the Church has an opportunity to model a more constructive approach. He concluded: "In a moment when public discourse is too easily captured by its most strident voices, the Church has a particular opportunity to show what it looks like to love a place well. That opportunity should not be surrendered by default."