STATEMENT FROM HARINGEY MULTIFAITH FORUM -

We are all horrified and appalled by the actions of the bomber/s in destroying, needlessly, the innocent lives of many concert-goers in the Manchester Arena last night. We have also had communication from a number of other interested parties, offering mutual support and concern, including those who have a wider London remit.

We all want to assure those affected, all people of our borough, together with those who work in the council and emergency services of our prayers and mutual concern over reaction to this event. We would want to offer any support to ensure that the peoples of Haringey are calm, safe and secure and enabled to respond in any way that builds up our community and reminds people that we live in a wonderfully diverse community. Any attack on it this, in any place, strikes right to the heart of all human beings, and all of us are hurt by the actions of a few perverse individuals who seek to destroy and not to build. We struggle, with others, how anyone could claim a faith motive for their devastating actions.

We would be more than happy to work with any agencies to promote good neighbourliness, hope and solidarity with those who are suffering. We will examine whether an appropriate response might be a meeting or vigil of some kind. We are also aware that sometimes the facts are still to be ascertained and some space for mourning and reflection is useful in these scenarios.

We remain as a forum committed to fostering good relations between the many faith groups of the borough and to work together with all those, who want to make our community a great place to live, work, learn, recreate, pray and grow!

Fr Simon, Rabbi David & Bibi. - Coordinating Committee

Father Simon PJ Clark SSC
Secretary/Coordinator