UK Christian leaders respond to Brexit as Britain votes to leave the European Union

Britain stunned the world last week after voting to leave the European Union in a referendum, and since then church leaders across the U.K. have given varied responses to the so-called 'Brexit'.

Bishop Robert Innes of the Church of England said he is concerned about the people in his diocese, who are now faced with various concerns such as health care, pensions and employment. He also pleaded with the EU and British diplomats to consider the situation of those who are living overseas.

"I have particular concerns about the implications for Ireland and for Scotland. There is now a need for a good deal of listening and healing as the UK finds a new future for itself both internally and in its place in the wider world," he wrote in an article for Anglican News, adding that at this time, nobody can tell the specific implications of leaving the EU.

The Archbishops of Canterbury and York also released a joint statement regarding Brexit, where they emphasized that the referendum was arrived at through a majority vote by the people and that it is the government's responsibility to consider the referendum's outcome and study the next steps for the nation.

"The vote to withdraw from the European Union means that now we must all reimagine both what it means to be the United Kingdom in an interdependent world and what values and virtues should shape and guide our relationships with others," the bishops said in a statement.

They encouraged the citizens of the U.K. to unite and look forward no matter what their views were during the campaign. They urged the people to "remain hospitable and compassionate" and to build bridges instead of walls.

"Many of those living among us and alongside us as neighbours, friends and work colleagues come from overseas and some will feel a deep sense of insecurity," the archbishops said, adding that the people must offer them reassurance by acknowledging the "unique contribution" of every person in society.

Paul Butler, the Bishop of Durham, said Britain needs healing and grace at this time.

"Twelve years ago today I was consecrated as a bishop. Called to pray and lead. This remains. Healing and grace needed for all in our nation," Butler said in a tweet.