United in Prayer with New Zealand

Over the weekend, communities gathered in churches and mosques around our Diocese to say prayers for those involved.

In a joint Statement issued by all three of our Bishops, Bishop Nicholas, Bishop Karen and Bishop Andrew said:
"In the wake of Friday’s appalling terror attacks, the Diocese of Salisbury is united in prayer and sympathy for those suffering in New Zealand, along with Muslims in our own communities."

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd Justin Welby said he felt "profound sympathy" for the victims and relatives of the killings as he appealed to Christians to reach out to their neighbours and pray for interfaith relations.

"As Christians we are called to be good neighbours. Let's get behind this simple act of kindness and reject hatred of Muslims,' he said.

"We have profound sympathy for the victims and relatives of the New Zealand terrorism. Let all Christians pray for healing of people, interfaith relations and New Zealand itself. Jesus calls us to welcome strangers and love our neighbour however different."

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu called the shootings a "deliberate act of hatred for which there is never an excuse or reason."

"I share a common heritage of the Abrahamic faith with our Muslim sisters and brothers and my prayers go to their families and community. The whole of NZ grieves, as we all do. We are all bound together by our common humanity, united in our longings for peace & hope," he said.

"God give wisdom to all who lead and exercise authority. God give unity to the people of Christchurch. God give hope and energy to restore neighbourhoods and bridge any divisions which may arise. My prayers are with you."

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