Rev Sharon Hunt Resigns After Alleged Racist Abuse at London Church

A Church of England curate, Rev Sharon Hunt, has resigned from St Mary’s Church in Putney, southwest London, following an incident in which she says she was subjected to racist abuse during a parish gathering.

Hunt, who joined the church in 2023, was the first Black curate in the nearly 700-year history of the worshipping community. She had also taken on additional responsibilities while the parish was without a permanent lead priest.

The incident reportedly took place on September 24 during a monthly seminar supper held at a parishioner’s home. In a letter announcing her resignation, which was read to the congregation on October 25 by the Archdeacon of Wandsworth, Bridget Shepherd, Hunt described the evening as an experience that turned from a social gathering into a personal attack on her identity.

She also expressed disappointment that other members present did not intervene or speak up while the alleged abuse was taking place.

Hunt said the silence of those who witnessed the incident left her feeling neither recognised nor valued within the church community. She stressed that remaining silent when someone experiences racism should not be considered an acceptable response.

Her decision to leave has brought renewed attention to the challenges surrounding racial inclusion and accountability within church communities, particularly in institutions that publicly affirm equality and welcome people from different backgrounds.

The Diocese of Southwark expressed deep sadness over the situation and unequivocally condemned racism. It confirmed that pastoral support had been provided to Hunt and that the matter had been referred through the appropriate diocesan processes.

The diocese also said it would review the lessons from the incident and consider ways to strengthen anti-racism work within the parish.

Hunt acknowledged that she did not believe the views of the person responsible represented the entire congregation. Nevertheless, her experience raises important questions about the responsibility of church members to challenge discrimination rather than remain silent when it occurs.

For the Church of England, the incident is a reminder that building an inclusive church requires more than statements of welcome. It must also be demonstrated through everyday actions, mutual respect and the willingness to stand with those who experience injustice