To all Christian Church Leaders
Dear All,
As Christians across the United Kingdom gather to celebrate Christmas, I want to thank you for the vital role that churches and Christian communities play in the life of our country.
As Prime Minister, I have the huge privilege of seeing the difference that churches make across the country. I am ever grateful for the countless acts of love and kindness, hospitality and generosity that Christians share with their neighbours and communities. So many in our country find strength for today and hope for the future through your commitment and service.
In recent years, many families have faced real hardships, and too many children are growing up without the security and opportunity they deserve. Churches have been at the forefront of responding, supporting families in crisis, strengthening communities, and offering dignity and help where it is most needed. Poverty is a moral scar on our society and we are acting. We're expanding free school meals and breakfast clubs, cutting the cost of energy bills and lifting the two-child benefit cap. I am grateful for your continued commitment to advocacy and action on behalf of our most vulnerable citizens.
At a time of global uncertainty and conflict, churches continue to pray for peace and reconciliation. While many of us celebrate with our families this Christmas, Christian organisations around the world will be offering food, shelter, hospitality and healthcare in communities living through climate change, famine and war. As we look to the new year, may their service be an example for us all.
At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Christ, the promise of light breaking into darkness and the hope of peace and goodwill for all people.
Thank you for all you do to share this in your churches, charities and communities, and not just at Christmas but all year round. I look forward to working together in 2026 as we seek to renew our country and bring hope to many.
Happy Christmas!
Rt Hon. Keir Starmer KC MP Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party