‘We are seeing real conversions,’ says church leader

Contrary to suggestions within the media, the leader of a UK evangelical church network has said there has not been any “significant influx” of asylum seekers turning to the Christian faith. 

The query of conversion claims by asylum seekers has come to the fore after last week’s acid attack in Clapham. The suspect, Abdul Ezedi, was granted asylum after claiming to have converted to Christianity.

The attack led to Suella Braverman writing in The Telegraph that in her time as home secretary she “became aware of churches across the country facilitating industrial-scale bogus asylum claims”.

The Church has been forced to answer accusations from politicians that it helps asylum seekers game the asylum system with fake conversion claims. 

Affinity leader, Graham Nicholls, writing in a blog for the church network’s website, admitted it was a “difficult area” and said it was vital for church leaders to be discerning and act with “integrity and wisdom”.

While there have been instances of some people “faking it”, other experiences of conversion amongst foreigners have been “real”, he insisted.

“Churches don’t run the asylum system and it just isn’t for us to make your mind up whether it is correct for any individual to remain here. Our duty as church leaders is to deal with this matter with each compassion and a commitment to truth, guided by the principles embodied by Christ,” he said. 

“Contrary to claims of widespread abuse, our personal experiences with asylum seekers in search of refuge in Christianity haven’t revealed a big influx.

“However, I do know of situations where there have been conversions from people coming from other countries with sincere spiritual hunger who at the moment are living well as disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.” 

Nicholls said it was vital for church leaders to reveal “sympathy quite than cynicism” towards people coming to them for help, and that they need to “extend compassion” to anyone showing a “sincere” interest within the Christian faith, especially those for whom such an interest puts them in peril.

He admitted there was a necessity for “heightened vigilance” and that church leaders should look out for “red flags”, but he insisted this was true for all people showing an interest within the Christian faith.

“Yet – just as we should always for anyone saying they’re Christians – we recognise the importance of discernment. It is our duty to check the authenticity of people’ beliefs and observe how they live out their latest faith. Sadly, in some cases, we could have decided that for whatever reason they’re ‘faking it’,” he said. 

“In certain contexts, we acknowledge the necessity for heightened vigilance, recognising potential ‘red flags’ which will suggest insincerity.

“We love heartfelt conversions to Christ from all religions and none, and we’re dedicated to providing a welcoming environment for those genuinely in danger of their home countries. However, we’re also committed to acting with integrity and wisdom. Pray for all Christian leaders as they navigate this difficult area.”