Launch and Blessing of the Diocesan Racial Justice Toolkit
The Diocese of Chichester welcomed Bishop Rosemarie Mallett for the launch and blessing of the new Diocesan Racial Justice Toolkit — a resource designed to help parishes engage more deeply and practically with issues of racial justice. Bishop Rosemarie, who is the Church of England’s Lead Bishop for Racial Justice and Deputy Chair of the Racial Justice Board, commended the toolkit as “a valuable resource” that she looks forward to sharing with colleagues and with those involved in the work of Project Spire.
The event was hosted at St John the Evangelist, Brighton, and brought together Bishop Will, Bishop Ruth, representatives from the Cathedral and Diocesan Church House, and parish members from across the Diocese.
Organised by Vitalis Ngwumbi, Diocesan Racial Justice Co‑ordinator, the afternoon included uplifting music from the Zinafe Choir, whose songs of praise set a tone of joy, celebration, and unity. The occasion concluded with the sharing of English and African dishes — a warm expression of fellowship and thanksgiving.
Vitalis said: “I give thanks to God for bringing this vision to fruition. As an African proverb reminds us, it takes a whole village to raise a child; in the same spirit, it takes a whole diocese to bring racial justice to full realisation.”
He added that the toolkit has been thoughtfully developed to support parishes, schools, and communities in moving from intention to practice. Drawing inspiration from Lament to Action, it offers a faith‑based framework that calls us to lament, to listen, and to act — reminding us that the work of racial justice flows from our baptismal calling to honour the full humanity and dignity of our neighbour.
Grateful thanks are extended to Canon Emma Ham‑Riche and the congregation of St John the Evangelist for hosting this important event. The Racial Justice Toolkit will soon be available to download from the Diocesan website.
Project Spire is the Church Commissioners’ plan to address the legacy of the slave trade.
You can read a copy of the Toolkit here - There are limited hard copies. Please email Vitalis here
More photos from teh event can be seen on our Facebook page below: