A leader for our times

Justin Welby is proving himself to be a considerable leader of the Church of England in times of crisis. Having played his part in defeating the assisted dying bill, he has also been entering into the political arena and lobbying on behalf of Syria’s Christians and other minorities.

Rightly he has pointed out to political leaders that British government promises to take refugees from UN camps ignore the plight of Christians. As the persecuted church charity Barnabas Fund has pointed out, Syrian Christians are fearful of organised Islamist groups in the camps. Christians are to be found hiding in private homes and they need very specific help.

Though Christians must support all those in need, they have a special responsibility for their brothers and sisters in Christ, especially at times of major persecution. Christians, and other minority groups, are facing unique hardship in Syria and Iraq. Yet the regulations and rules of the international community, which prevent discrimination, result in more suffering to those who are suffering most.

By offering no specific help to suit the needs of minority groups, the UN effectively discriminates against them.