10/06/2026
Today we had a really meaningful visit to the churches of Slindon and Madehurst in the Diocese, alongside Vitalis Ngwambi, our Racial Justice Officer. We were warmly invited by the vicar, and were struck by the rich history and remarkable features of both churches.
Our visit focused on learning more about several memorial plaques, including one dedicated to a enslaver and another deeply moving and unique plaque commemorating Roque Ferdinand, remembered for his ‘zeal and honesty.’ The Roque memorial is one of the few known church plaques commemorating a formerly enslaved person in a sacred space.
This important work will contribute to a special service and blessing of Roque Ferdinand’s memorial in October, as part of Black History Month. We are committed to carefully gathering and sharing what we uncover from these historic spaces.
We look forward to sharing more in the months ahead.