In a bustling area of South London, amidst one of the city’s most economically challenged neighborhoods, the holiday spirit is in full swing. At the Oasis St Martin’s Village hub in Tulse Hill, a festive Christmas party marked the launch of the inaugural ‘Together at Christmas’ community meal initiative. This event, the first of its kind, aims to kick off a series of pilot gatherings throughout the 2025 holiday season with the goal of expanding to 1,000 meals by the following Christmas.
Concerns have arisen among church and faith leaders regarding attempts by the Far Right to politicize and exploit Christmas. Steve Chalke MBE, a British Baptist minister and founder of the Oasis Charitable Trust, expressed worries about the growing division in society, emphasizing the importance of combating fear, loneliness, and hostility by fostering unity and connection.
We Are United, a coalition of grassroots leaders, faith groups, charities, and businesses, has launched ‘Together at Christmas’ as a nationwide effort to promote community engagement, inclusivity, and optimism. Rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric, the initiative focuses on the simple yet powerful act of sharing a meal to bring people together and foster a sense of belonging.
The aim is for these communal meals to extend beyond the holiday season, bridging gaps between neighbors and offering a supportive environment where individuals can share stories and companionship. Free to attend, these events are facilitated by local volunteers and community partners who believe in the importance of ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued, especially during the festive period.
While some have sought to emphasize the religious aspects of Christmas for political purposes, others have stressed the need for unity and compassion. The incoming archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, highlighted the importance of recognizing our shared humanity amidst divisive conversations about immigration. The Church of England, through its poster campaign, aims to remind the public of the message of compassion and inclusivity inherent in the Christian faith.
In response to efforts to sow division during the holiday season, various ‘Together at Christmas’ events have taken place nationwide, from Hull to Slough to London. These gatherings have brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of togetherness and solidarity in the face of attempts to sow discord.
Ultimately, the message of unity and inclusivity prevails as communities across the country come together to celebrate the holiday season with warmth, compassion, and a shared commitment to overcoming differences for the greater good.