Starmer uses Easter message to stress hope, service and national renewal

With Britons braced for a new cost-of-living squeeze as the Iran war sends oil prices sharply higher, Sir Keir Starmer has used his Easter message to emphasise hope, service and national renewal

Sir Keir Starmer has used his Easter message to praise churches and Christian charities for their work in local communities, while acknowledging what he called a period of “real anxiety” for many families in Britain.

In a message published by Downing Street on Friday, the British Prime Minister said Easter was “a celebration of hope, new life and renewal” and thanked Christian communities for the support they offer to families, children and neighbours across the country. 

He said that spirit of service reflected both “national renewal” and “the very heart of Christ’s example”.

Starmer said the message came at a time of “real anxiety” for many people, pointing to conflict abroad, pressure at home and uncertainty about the future.

Faith, he added, could offer “reassurance and grounding” in such moments and described churches as long rooted in their neighbourhoods, helping to tackle poverty, fear and isolation.

Britons are currently braced for a cost-of-living squeeze as the Middle East conflict is sending global oil prices skyrocketing.

He also used the statement to underline the government’s intention to work with faith groups, saying ministers were keen to partner with churches and other belief organisations through programmes including Pride in Place and Best Start Family Hubs.

The Prime Minister said: “Our country is at its best when we choose community over division, kindness over indifference, and service over self-interest.” 

He ended by wishing Christians in the UK and around the world “a very happy Easter filled with peace, hope and the promise of new life”.

READ MORE: ‘Iran, nuclear proliferation and the hard choices facing democracies‘. Should the West risk confrontation with Iran, or accept the possibility of a nuclear-armed regime exerting leverage over one of the world’s most important oil routes? The question goes to the heart of today’s debate over Iran and the risks facing global trade, writes Business & Regulation Correspondent Harry Margulies. 

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_{Main image: Starmer as Prime Minister outside 10 Downing Street, 5 July 2024. Credit: Kirsty O’Connor / No 10 Downing Street}