The Church of England’s co-lead on racial justice said he “rejoiced” that Tommy Robinson has come to faith, but has urged the activist to understand the Christian message of compassion. 

Rt Revd Arun Arora, the Bishop of Kirkstall, told The Guardian that a “battle as to what Christianity is” could come in the next few years. 

Dozens of Christian leaders denounced the “co-option” of Christian symbols for political messaging after Robinson's 'Unite the Kingdom' (UTK) events, which they said had “racist” and “far-right” themes.

Around 1,000 people attended Robinson's carol service in London earlier this month, an event billed as “putting Christ back into Christmas”. 

It was a fraction of the more than 150,000 who took part in the UTK rally in September, which included prayers, worship songs and crowds marching with crosses.

Bishop Arora said the far-right leader needed to hear about the values of loving your neighbour and justice for the weak and vulnerable.

“Not everyone who goes on a UTK march is racist. No one is in favour of uncontrolled immigration. But that doesn’t mean you stand neutral in the face of Robinson’s message,” he told the newspaper. 

Bishop Arora joined clergy in his diocese of Leeds in engaging with protesters outside asylum hotels in the city and offering cake, as part of a “positive patriotism” in contrast with Robinson’s anti-migrant movement. 

Ahead of Robinson’s carols, the Diocese of Leeds unveiled a poster campaign of a nativity scene set at a bus stop to share that Jesus’ love was for all. 

A Church of England video proclaiming “Christmas isn’t cancelled” was also released in the week of the service, which has been viewed two million times on social media. 

Robinson was “led to Christ” while in prison, Pastor Rikki Doolan exclusively told Premier Christian Radio in September. 

Pastor Doolan said Robinson made a personal decision, as he was serving time in October 2024.