Faith Leaders across the borough of Lewisham are united in condemning the shocking murders in Nice, France, on 14th July. Such an act of murder on families and children celebrating a public holiday has no basis in any religious belief.
Lewisham’s Faith Leaders reject all such acts of violence and terrorism, where ever they occur, in London, Europe or the Middle East. We renew our commitment to working together here in Lewisham for peace, justice and a community of mutual trust and respect.
Lewisham has a proud history of diversity and tolerance and is home to people from many nations and cultures. As Faith Leaders we celebrate this multi-cultural heritage as an example of integration and cooperation.
Our recent Walk for Peace (29th May 2016) was a clear demonstration that our common humanity and shared community are strong bonds and we can enjoy learning from each other’s different traditions and perspectives on the world. We urge the people of Lewisham from all faiths and none to work together with our Police and civic authorities to strengthen those bonds and protect peace.
Sir Steve Bullock, Mayor of Lewisham
Chief Superintendent Kate Halpin, Lewisham Police
Imam Shakeel Begg, Lewisham Islamic Centre
Mr Joe Birchell, Catford Synagogue
Revd Canon Peter Farley-Moore, St John’s, Deptford
Revd Jane Kustner, St Swithun’s, Hither Green
Revd Steve Hall, St Mary’s, Lewisham
Fr Chris Connor, St Saviour’s RC Church, Lewisham
Revd Bridget Shepherd, The Good Shepherd, Lee
Fr Philip Corbett, St Stephen’s, Lewisham
Revd Canon Charles Pickstone, St Laurence, Catford
Cllr Janet Daby, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Lewisham Council
Revd Dr Stephen Maunder, Lewisham Methodist Church
Carol Bostridge, Lewisham Street Pastors