Nuts and crosses: Why is Christian nationalism on the rise?
The Black PaperPlay episode
Show notes
Send us Fan Mail
Summary
What happens when those who claim to be defenders of the Christian faith use it to justify exclusion and racism? In this episode of The Black Paper, we unpack the rise of Christian nationalism in Britain, drawing on a new report by Theos Think Tank to examine the relationship between faith, identity and belonging, and why immigrant communities should be wary of rhetoric that weaponises Christianity to target others.
We also reflect on the tragic deaths of Jane Adetoro, Christina Walters and Rebecca Walters, three sisters who died by suicide together in May 2026. Their story forces us to confront our community’s fragile relationship with mental health discussions and the urgent need for more open, culturally aware conversations about depression, grief, isolation and seeking support.
Content note: This episode includes discussion of suicide, grief, depression and mental health crises.
If you or someone you know needs support:
Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)PAPYRUS: 0800 068 4141CALM: 0800 58 58 58Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258Black Minds Matter UK: blackmindsmatteruk.comBAATN (Black, African and Asian Therapy Network): baatn.org.uk
Chapters
00:00: Welcome, UK weather and opening banter
05:45: Today’s topics: Christian nationalism and a difficult conversation on mental health
06:58: Content note and support resources
08:29: What the Theos report says about Christian nationalism
12:27: Christianity, identity, immigration and exclusion
15:23: Racism, public services and the politics behind “Christian values”
19:08: Why African-heritage communities should pay attention to the rise of Reform
22:05: Imported religious divides and geopolitical awareness
26:40: Faith, politics and the danger of exclusionary nationalism
28:08: Break
29:05: The deaths of three sisters and the conversation around mental health
31:53: Grief, isolation and the importance of checking in
36:25: Community networks and barriers to mental-health support
39:14: Why listening can matter more than having an answer
42:25: Prayer, vulnerability and making space to talk
44:36: The value of a safe space to vent
47:24: Supporting children, community and connection
49:09: Support resources revisited
50:45: Next episode preview and closing banter
Support the show
