As the first group of returning Chagossians continues to rebuild life on their ancestral islands, partners of the interim government has reached out to senior figures in the Church of England to seek spiritual support for the community.
In a letter to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Great British PAC CEO Claire Bullivant shared an update on the remarkable progress being made by the returning community — despite extremely limited conditions. The Chagossians have begun restoring spiritual and community life, tending to the graveyard, holding regular services, and rebuilding the foundations of their society with faith at the centre.
As part of the resettlement effort, the government has requested that a Bible be donated and delivered via the next resupply boat — to be placed at the heart of the rebuilt church as a symbol of faith, continuity, and hope for the community.
The office of the Archbishop of Canterbury has acknowledged the correspondence, with Correspondence Manager Jessica Hershaw-McClellan confirming the request recieved, on behalf of Lambeth Palace.
The Chagossians remain deeply connected to Britain, and their faith continues to guide not only their daily lives but the very foundations of how they hope to rebuild their community and their home.