Methodist Church opposes Evangelicals' views on Religious Hatred Proposals

The Methodist Church has decided to go against many conservative Christian groups, and has publicly declared its support for the government's plans to outlaw actions which may be seen to incite religious hatred.

The government have created the Serious Organised Crime and Police Bill, which contains a number of measures that are feared will greatly restrict the actions of people towards religious groups. Although the government promotes the measures as making it an offence to incite hatred against any individual or group because of their religious beliefs, conservative evangelicals fear that the restrictive measures may actually hamper their pro-active religious movements.

In opposition to the Bill, an unusual alliance has formed. Television comedian Rowan Atkinson, as well as a number of comedians, writers, have joined a number of top religious groups, and even the National Secular Society have joined forces with the Alliance. The group met together last week at the House of Commons to lay down their opposition to the Bill.

Among the Christian conservative groups that fear the measures will prevent them evangelising are the Barnabas Fund, the Evangelical Alliance, and the Lawyers Christian Fellowship.

The Methodist Parliamentary and Political Secretary, Rachel Lampard said that the conservative views are founded on a misconception of exactly what the Bill entails.

"The legislation is about inciting hatred, not about satire, jokes or evangelisation. It is about preventing extremist political groups using loopholes in the existing law to promote hatred of certain religions. The test of hatred will be very high, and the Attorney-General will have to approve each prosecution. If our jokes or methods of evangelisation could ever incite violence or hatred, they would be at variance with all that Christianity stands for," said Lampard.

The Secretary for Inter Faith Relations, Dr Elizabeth Harris said, "the Methodist Church is committed to an open discussion for beliefs and ensuring that people of all faiths are protected from hatred. Other faiths tell us that they want this legislation. We have to respect this."

"This legislation is not about debating truth claims nor about whether all religions are the same. But it is about all individuals and communities having the right to live and work without the fear of violence arising from religious hatred. The legislation will apply to everyone, so Christians will be protected as well."

The Methodist viewpoint has however, flown in the face of the conservative evangelical efforts, and the Alliance opposing the legislation have only been more reunified in their endeavours to ensure that the Bill does not become a restriction to their works.