Church of England Faces Backlash Over High-Paying Racial Justice Role

The Church of England has come under scrutiny for advertising a "head of racial justice priority" position in the Diocese of London with an annual salary of £66,646, more than double the stipend received by parish priests in the same diocese. This development has ignited a debate about resource allocation and priorities within the church.

The role, aimed at creating a "racially just church," is part of a broader initiative to address racial justice issues within the Church of England. This effort has gained momentum since the establishment of the Archbishops' Commission for Racial Justice in May 2020, following the death of George Floyd.

Rev Marcus Walker, rector of St Bartholomew the Great in the City of London, expressed concern about the high salary, stating that parish contributions to the diocese should not be used for such positions. This criticism highlights the ongoing challenges the Church of England faces in balancing its various priorities and financial responsibilities.

In response to the criticism, Rt Rev Anderson Jeremiah, the Bishop of Edmonton, defended the position, emphasizing the importance of addressing racial injustice within the church. He stated, "The Diocese makes no apologies for making racial justice a priority. Racial injustice is part of the history of this Diocese, and of the Church of England."

The Church of England has been grappling with issues of diversity and inclusion for decades, with efforts to address racial justice dating back to the 1980s. In recent years, these initiatives have intensified, with several dioceses creating similar positions to focus on racial equity and justice.

This development occurs against a backdrop of declining church attendance and ongoing debates about the role of the Church of England in modern British society. As the established church of England and the mother church of the Anglican Communion, it faces the challenge of maintaining its relevance while addressing historical injustices and promoting inclusivity.

The General Synod, the church's legislative body, approved a motion in February 2024 requiring all parishes to develop their own "race action plans." This decision reflects the Church of England's commitment to embedding racial justice throughout its structure, from local parishes to the highest levels of leadership.

While the Church of England continues to navigate these complex issues, it must also balance its various roles, including its involvement in the British political system through bishops sitting in the House of Lords and its significant financial investments and property holdings.

As the Church of England moves forward with its racial justice initiatives, it will need to address concerns about resource allocation and demonstrate how these efforts contribute to its broader mission and the well-being of its parishes and communities.

"We need to further embed racial justice in the Church. We should not be afraid of being called 'woke'."

This ongoing discussion about racial justice and resource allocation within the Church of England reflects broader societal debates about addressing historical injustices and promoting equity in institutions with long-standing traditions and complex hierarchies.