As violent rioting continues throughout London, Christian leaders and
politicians held a vigil of hope last night in response to the carnage.
In several areas of the city flames are ripping through shops and
cars, as hundreds of hooded looters take to the streets intent on
causing damage.
Despite the horrors, faith leaders and politicians united in an effort to bring peace to the capital.
Held at The High Cross in Tottenham, the peace vigil was organised by
the Church of England, the Roman Catholic Church, the Methodist Church,
the United Reformed Church, as well as Pentecostal and independent
churches.
Tottenham MP David Lammy and leader of Haringey Council, Claire
Kober, also attended the event, which included collective prayers for
the community and addresses from faith leaders.
The Bishop of Edmonton, local bishop for the Diocese of London, the
Rt Rev Peter Wheatley said: “These events cannot be allowed to define
the Tottenham we know and love. Many of us have worked in this community for many years and we know
the loving, generous and openhearted people with whom we share our daily
lives are not the rioters who have destroyed so much. What has happened will not conquer the hope which is set before us.
We will continue to share that hope with our neighbours and friends as
we move to rebuild in Tottenham.”
Church of England parishes in Tottenham are providing practical help for members of the community.
St Mary the Virgin Church, on Landsdowne Road, is at the heart of
where much of the trouble has been. Leaders are providing support for
those whose homes and businesses have
been affected, including distributing meals and providing hot water
and phone charging facilities to those who were left without
electricity.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to all those affected, including those
who have been made homeless and local business owners whose livelihoods
have been threatened,” the bishop added.
“Together, our churches already run a multitude of activities
supporting all members of the community, irrespective of their faith,
and these efforts will be continued and where possible extended.”