Christian Concern CEO at Reform conference: Mixed reactions

The appearance of a Christian advocacy group's CEO at the Reform UK Conference is sparking mixed reactions.

Andrea Williams, CEO of Christian Concern (CC), gave an address at the Christian Fellowship for Reform fringe event at the party's conference, which took place from 3–5 September at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham.

Williams' speech saw a focus on the late Ann Widdecombe who, towards the end of her life, became an advocate for Reform UK.

"As we look at Reform and its radical vision for government – to take power back from the administrative state, and use a smaller but stronger state to facilitate the rebuilding of family, community and country – we see so much of what Ann stood for, unembarrassed, in public life for forty years," Williams said.

Following this opening tribute, Williams detailed Christian Concern's mission, outlined her personal story and background, and cited three cases which have attracted public attention, including the Darlington nurses. She then added: "That is why Danny Kruger’s big ideas for government matter. Cut through the administrative state. That is radical reform.

"And radical reform is necessary because too many of our great institutions have become captured, unaccountable and impenetrable. Build a big and beautiful vision for freedom not fear; faith not faithlessness; hope not despair.

"People need something to believe in – to build. And I am unashamed to say that Jesus Christ is the ultimate reformer. He changed my heart. Changed hearts change lives. Changed lives change families. Strong families build strong communities. And strong communities build strong nations. So yes – we need the most radical rethink of government and public life in generations."

Concluding her speech, Williams said: "But political reform must be accompanied by moral reformation. My prayer is that Reform’s ideas will be truly understood in the public square – and that together we have the courage to: Challenge what is wrong. Articulate what is right. Build what is better. For life. For family. For freedom. And for the good of our nation."

Reaction

Mixed reactions are being expressed on social media.

Under Christian Concern's Facebook post about the event, one comment, with over 80 likes at the time of writing, reads: "As a Christian Concern supporter, I am in fact concerned if it is (perhaps unintentionally) giving the appearance of supporting any political party, but especially Reform with the serious issues it faces. There are genuine Christians in all parties and cross party between Christians is best." Christian Concern, on its website, says: "Of course, Christians should resist the temptation to place messianic hopes in any political party. Reform UK is not the kingdom of God, and Nigel Farage is not the nation’s saviour."

Some comments expressed support for the endeavour. One reads: "So glad that Reform is not afraid to proclaim the Christian and Jewish faiths on which our society is founded, and to have set up Christian and Jewish groups in the party. Good to see Andrea at a fringe event." Another says: "Christians should absolutely get involved in politics by pointing to the truth."

Separately, one comment discusses the party's leadership: "It would be the making of Reform to see born again 'quietly confident' Christian MP Danny Kruger step up if Nigel Farage has to step down. After all God uses all things for the good of those who love Him." One reply to this comment says: "Romans 8v28 'And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.' You missed the second half of the verse. Would deporting refugees, shouting at vicars (and hotels), and attacking people with a different colour of skin be part of God’s purpose?"

"The Bible teaches to look after the refugees, the poor and disabled," another comment reads.

One man expressed questions: "I hope that this is not evidence of Christian Concern becoming politically partisan, in alignment with an organisation many of us will struggle with for many reasons? Is there an equal desire to participate at the party conferences of the other major political parties?"

'The ultimate reformer'

Christian Concern captioned its post with this quote from Williams: "I believe that Jesus Christ is the ultimate reformer. He reforms my heart, and when He reforms my heart, He reforms my family. He reforms my community, and it reforms our nation."

Underneath, the organisation writes: "Our chief Executive Andrea Williams gave a speech on the stage of the Christian Fellowship for Reform fringe event at its party’s conference.

"She critiqued the atheistic secular ideology that has gripped our institutions but pointed to the true answer - not mere values but Jesus Christ Himself."

Referencing the above quote, one commenter said: "That quote is true and strictly speaking there’s little wrong in the rest of the speech. But it's a pity Ms Williams didn't take the opportunity to remind Reform UK members of the reforms that Jesus wants - His call to love God and love our neighbour (exemplified in care for a foreigner); and/or the expectations set by His disciples (based on His and older Biblical teaching): to care for widows, orphans, strangers. I could go on."

en has contacted Williams about her decision to attend and speak at the conference, and has also contacted Christian Concern about whether it has plans to attend or speak at events associated with other political parties.