Parish Statement: The Cross of St George

St George the Martyr, Southwark, is among the earliest churches in England dedicated to St George, centuries before he was adopted as patron of the Order of the Garter and long before the cross was employed in later military, colonial, or political campaigns. At the heart of London, the cross has always been part of our story.

For us, this heritage calls us to keep the cross of St George a symbol of welcome, not exclusion. It is not a mark of conquest or fear but a sign of Christ’s self-giving love, pointing to the one who gave his life for the whole world and gathers people from every nation into one family of God.

We therefore grieve when the cross is used to intimidate or divide, or when Christian symbols are linked with hatred. Such use is a distortion of the gospel and stands against the way of Jesus Christ.

In our diverse parish, the cross of St George must remain a sign of hospitality, justice, and hope. At St George’s this is lived out in many ways, from the prayers we offer daily to the welcome given through the Borough Food Cooperative and our work with those seeking community and refuge. We remain committed to celebrating our differences and lifting high the cross as a sign of love stronger than fear.

The Rector and Churchwardens

St George the Martyr, Southwark