Church leaders in East Anglia are encouraging people to vote in the general election with the \u201cwellbeing of all people in our communities in mind\u201d\u009d.<\/p>\n
Five years ago almost four in 10 of those registered to vote did not do so and in a bid to encourage more people to the polls, they have come together to urge people to exercise their rights.<\/p>\n
In a joint statement, including Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Rev Graham James, and Bishop of East Anglia, the Rt Rev Michael Evans, said: \u201cThe churches in our area have hosted some of the best-attended hustings during this campaign and have done so in service to the wider community. The tradition of hospitality is well reflected in this area’s notable history of welcoming people fleeing persecution elsewhere in Europe, sometimes on religious grounds.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs Christian leaders in this generation we believe living together with mutual respect remains the foundation of a civilised society. All human beings are created equally in the image of God. That is why racism is a sin. Christ calls us to love our neighbours as ourselves and in this forthcoming election we believe it is right to be vigilant about any party or individual candidate seeking to use people’s fears for their own wellbeing to stir racial or religious hatred.<\/p>\n
\u201cInevitably this is an election taking place when people are anxious about their jobs, finances and future. We pray that the best and most generous traditions of our national life will guide all voters on May 6.\u201d\u009d<\/p>\n