Bishop John's statement following the incidents in Southport (02/08/24)
This comes at the end of a week that has been so traumatic. Our thoughts and continuing prayers go out to the families of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar and to all those injured and affected by this attack. We pray for all those who continue to care for those in need.
I have been in Southport, spending time with some of our clergy and volunteers and speaking with the local community leaders as they deal with events they never thought would happen in their town. I have seen the local community coming together to support one another. This solidarity was evident also on Wednesday morning when people gathered to repair the damages from the violent rioting of the previous evening.
I pray for our clergy and the church family in Southport and for the way they continue to respond and live out the cure of souls in their community. I visited some of our churches which were open, offering a compassionate ear and space for prayer or reflection. The dust will settle for the media and the world will move on to other news, but our congregations will be there bringing a hurt, shocked yet resilient community together.
We need to pray for and work towards peace in the wider society. We cannot be proud of a country where certain communities must now live in fear and anxiety. I pray that as a nation we embrace the vision of a just and caring society and as the people of God we commit ourselves to seek the welfare of the city and the nation where God has placed us.
Bishop John
Faith Leaders come together for unity
Liverpool's faith leaders have made a plea for peace and unity following the recent incidents in Southport. Imaam Ahmed Ali, Roman Catholic Bishop Tom Neylon, Barry Levene, President of the Merseyside Jewish Representative Council, and Bishop John Perumbalath have come together to speak out.
A statement from Bishop John Perumbalath regarding the ongoing incident in Southport (29/07/24):
"Like so many I am shocked and saddened by the news from Southport. My prayers are, and will remain, with all those affected by this tragedy.
I am deeply grateful for the quick response of all the emergency services and pray for all those called to care for the victims and support those affected by this incident.
I know events such as this are unsettling for the community and I pray for peace, calm and reassurance for all affected."
A message of prayer from Bishop John Perumbalath;
"Today, as we have more information about the horrific events in Southport our prayers are with the family and friends of the murdered children.
May God comfort the bereaved and support them at this difficult time. We also pray for those who remain critically injured in hospital asking God to surround them with love.
This tragedy has shocked a quiet community and we pray for them. Churches across Southport are open for prayer and our clergy will continue to support those in need."
For help and support
For advice and support - https://seftoncvs.org.uk/support-for-southport/
The official appeal - https://www.sefton.gov.uk//tragic-incident-in-southport-2907-updates-and-support/southport-strong-together-appeal/