Former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams spoke out against Christian nationalism on Friday, as UK Christians held a prayer walk in Hyde Park ahead of Remembrance Sunday.

Organised by Christians for a Welcoming Britain, the walk highlighted migrants’ contributions to Britain and called for inclusion and compassion.

Holly-Anna Petersen, an attendee of the prayer walk said: “The act of creating the St George’s flag in this way was done to reclaim the flag as an inclusive symbol for Britain, and to ensure that, as a Christian emblem, it reflects the Christian principle of loving thy neighbour”.

The prayer walk stopped at key sites, including the Commonwealth Memorial Gates, commemorating Commonwealth soldiers from the Indian subcontinent, Africa, and the Caribbean who died in the second world war.

Attendees held a large cross made of woven red poppies and roses in front of the memorial, forming the shape of the St George’s flag.

Rowan Williams, who could not attend in person, released a statement urging Christians to reject narratives portraying migrants as enemies. He said it was “more than time to challenge the story that every migrant approaching our shores is an unfriendly alien… it is the height of injustice to hold communities responsible for the crimes of individuals.”

Other clergy emphasised the connection between Christian values and social justice.

Rev Helen Burnett criticised scapegoating migrants amid the cost-of-living crisis, while Bishop Anderson Jeremiah said the cross should never be used to “hate or alienate people.”

Rt Rev Martin Gainsborough described the event as a celebration of Britain’s “rich diversity” and commitment to the flourishing of all communities.