As we struggle to find words to express our reactions to events around the world, we
come together as a visible expression of our friendship, solidarity, and support for
each other in Rotherham. We are appalled by the suffering we hear and see, and we
pray for all those who are in distress and for those in anguish, including within our own
communities here in Rotherham, as they fear for family and friends.
As catastrophes and conflicts continue to affect so many, our prayers become yet more
fervent for urgent humanitarian relief and for peace-building at every level.
In coming together at this time as faith leaders, we reach out to all those within our
communities to join us in prayer. Amidst deep emotional distress, we urge reflection
on faith, providing wisdom to guide our thoughts and actions with a common Creator
as our witness.
As we make sense of global events and strive to respond, may we firmly safeguard the
good relationships, shared values and bonds that we have worked to build in
Rotherham over many years.
We will stand together.
Signed:
Haji Saghir Alam, Muslim Community of Rotherham
Revd Canon Phil Batchford, Rotherham Minster & St Paul’s Masbrough
Adrian Dexter, Liberty Church
Rabbi Golomb, United Synagogue
David Homer, Buddhist
Venerable Javaid Iqbal, Archdeacon of Doncaster, Chair, Sheffield Diocesan Board of
Faith and Justice
Rev Fr Desmond Sexton, Hallam Diocese
Rev’d Matt Stone, Herringthorpe United Reformed Church
Ms Tricia Williams, Baha’i Community of Rotherham