A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP DAVID

Thursday, 17 August 2017
Our solidarity with Barcelona and the assurance of our prayers sent to St George’s

St George’s Barcelona
It is with shock and sadness that we see that once again terror has struck at the heart of one of our great European cities. Many have died in the van attack along one of the main and busiest streets in the centre of the city, filled with residents and visitors enjoying a summer afternoon.

I have been in touch with the Chaplain of St George’s Barcelona and with one of the Churchwardens Mr Jimmy Dress to ensure that our immediate community members are safe. Social media is helping Jimmy gather news of parishioners. The Chaplain, the Revd John Chapman, has been on leave and returns this weekend.

I wrote to John and his wife, the Revd Dr Deborah Chapman, and to Churchwarden Jimmy to convey a message on behalf o four diocesan family. The message is below.

I have just heard the news of the terrorist attack on La Rambla this afternoon, which has left some dead and many more injured. It is hard to contemplate that this seems to be yet one more deadly attack in the heart of one of Europe’s great cities.
Please be assured of my prayers at this time and of the prayers of your brothers and sisters across the diocese, for the victims, their families and loved ones, and for all who are affected by this horrific attack. We pray that members and those connected with our own parish of St George are themselves safe. We pray for those who work in the emergency services, and for all clergy and others who will be offering comfort, relief and pastoral support at this time of grief and shock.
We pray that the perpetrator or perpetrators are brought swiftly to justice, and that calm and a sense of security is restored to your beautiful and peaceful city.
May God turn the hearts of those who think that such evil actions are in any way justifiable. May God bless us with hope and strength, and bless all efforts to bring healing and peace.
O Dios, concede a tus humildes siervos la paz que el mundo no les puede dar.
In Christ Jesus
+David