Liverpool Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP was among religious leaders across the UK who called for prayers after three children were stabbed to death in Southport, England. Source: The Tablet.
Three children died and five children and two adults were in a critical condition after the stabbings on Monday at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga workshop. A 17-year-old male has been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Police yesterday announced that Dot Stancombe, aged 7, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9, and Bebe King, 6, had been killed in the attack, ABC News reports.
In a statement on Monday, Archbishop McMahon he said: “For those who have been injured, for those who are parents, family, and friends of the injured, for all involved in the emergency services, we pray for God’s blessing, God’s peace, and God’s presence today. Let us commend all to the loving intercession of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted as we pray for peace, healing, and justice.”
Patrick Hurley, Labour MP for Southport, referring to a vigil held for the victims of the attack, said the area was in “shock and grief”. He described the attack as a “uniquely horrific event” and called for anyone with information to go to the police.
The Church of England also urged all to join in prayer for those affected.
The Church of England’s Christ Church Southport said: “Our hearts and prayers go out to all those who have been affected. For those fighting in hospital, for those whose world has fallen apart, for those who are afraid, for those who first responded, for those who know someone that was there, for our town.”
The Rev Marie-Anne Kent of the Church of St Philip and St Paul with Wesley said: “We pray for all those in our community grieving, watching and waiting. There are few words we can say tonight.”
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Prayers for all affected by stabbings in Southport (By Ruth Gledhill, The Tablet)
