Wells Cathedral has urged worshippers to stand firm in the true message of Christmas — love, hope and inclusion — after far-right groups used Christian language during a protest in London.

The statement came in response to events on Saturday, 13 December, where extremist groups reportedly invoked religious rhetoric to promote hostility and division.

"We are reminded that the heart of Christmas is a message of love and hope for all people," the Cathedral said in a public message. "We pray that our worship and witness this, and every, Sunday will overflow with welcome, hospitality and joy, so that every person knows they are embraced by the light and peace of Christ."

The message was shared on Gaudete Sunday, a traditional point of joy and reflection in the Advent season.

It comes amid growing concern over the rise of so-called "Christian nationalism" — a movement criticised for distorting religious language to justify exclusion and far-right ideology.

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