Quakers in Britain are calling for “bridge-building” and the healing of divisions following the result of the Brexit referendum.

In a statement issued on 24th June, Britain Yearly Meeting (BYM) says “there is now a great need for bridge-building, for reaching out to one another in love, trusting that below the political differences lie a shared a humanity and a wish for flourishing communities”.

Acknowledging that the outcome of the referendum, and the campaigning that led up to it, had shown up and sometimes exacerbated divisions within and between communities, BYM says that Quakers in England, Scotland and Wales are committed to working together and with others – including Quakers across Europe – for a peaceful and just world: “In the coming year our Quaker Yearly Meeting will focus on building movements with others locally and globally. We refuse to prejudge who is or is not an ally.”

The statement continues: “Turbulent times can be frightening, but the Spirit is a source of strength for all, guiding us in who we are and what we do. We take heart from the knowledge that with change comes opportunity. We will look for creative ways to find common cause, to listen, to influence and to persuade. As the status quo is shaken we and our neighbours must look to one another for support, wisdom and above all ways of healing divisions.”

The full statement can be read on the BYM website.