We are delighted to share important developments in the work of racial justice. This update announces two key appointments and outlines a proposed trajectory for embedding racial justice at the heart of our mission and ministry in the Diocese of St Albans.
“Racial justice is central to our calling as a diocese. These steps signal our determination to make that vision real in all our parishes, schools and chaplaincies.” Bishop Richard
New appointments
Ben Hammond appointed as Racial Justice Officer
Ben joins us following a competitive recruitment process and brings experience from his previous role as Data Analyst & Project Support Officer.
Ben writes:
“I am delighted to be taking up the role of Racial Justice Officer. The work of racial justice is a central aspect of our diocesan work, not because it is a cultural or political trend, but because God calls His Church, and therefore this diocese, to seek justice.
“My hope is that, alongside you, we can take significant steps in the pursuit and integration of racial justice across the life of the diocese. This will involve a commitment to: reviewing and auditing our work; developing training and resources to address gaps; and supporting alignment of policy with racial justice priorities. Above all, a commitment to racial justice is a commitment to God’s vision for a good Church and a good world.”
The Revd Kathryn Alford appointed as Racial Justice Action Group (RJAG) Chair
Kathryn brings a wealth of experience from her parish ministry and previous leadership in diversity and inclusion within Government.
Kathryn writes:
“I’m taking on the role of Chair of the Racial Justice Action Group both with a commitment to building on the good work already undertaken by the Group, and with real expectation about what might now become possible, particularly with the appointment of a new Racial Justice Officer.
“I’m really glad to be working alongside Ben Hammond in that role, as well as the Revd Jairo Nyaongo, the Bishop’s Adviser for Minority Ethnic Concerns, and the other dedicated members of RJAG, as we shape this work together.
My hope is that the Group will act as a catalyst for diocesan-wide change, addressing structural and cultural barriers that limit whose voices are heard and whose leadership is recognised, and helping our churches and diocesan bodies better reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. I believe this work is not just morally important, but a kingdom imperative, central to how we seek to live out the gospel together.”
We also express our deep thanks to Jacob Kurien for his faithful leadership as previous RJAG Chair and look forward to his continued involvement in racial justice through other diocesan roles.
Looking ahead
The refreshed racial justice team—Kathryn, Ben and Jairo—will work together to accelerate progress. Guided by our proposed trajectory, this includes:
Audit: understanding where we are now
Quick wins: collecting data and sharing stories of good work
Leadership pipelines: creating long-term impact.
Our guiding principle is simple: racial justice begins with hearts and minds shaped by God’s Kingdom. We seek to acknowledge pain without losing hope, and to work for healing that brings people together.