Church leaders pray for victims of London Bridge attack

Following last night’s attack near London Bridge, in which seven people died and 48 people were injured, church leaders have been issuing messages and calls for prayer.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster tweeted last night: 'All involved in disturbing and violent incidents in #LondonBridge #BoroughMarket and #Vauxhall are in my prayers this night.'

The Archbishop of Canterbury Most Rev Justin Welby tweeted: 'Again we grieve with wounded and bereaved, as they face pain and struggle. Today we pray 'Come Holy Spirit', Spirit of peace & of healing.'

The Anglican Bishop of Southwark, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun and the Dean of Southwark, the Very Rev Andrew Nunn commented on Southwark Cathedral website:

'The truly shocking events that happened at London Bridge and Borough Market have irrevocably changed the lives of many people and have deeply affected the local community. Our prayers are with all who have been touched by these events. At present Southwark Cathedral remains closed but when we re-open there will be the chance for people to come in and pray and talk to our clergy and chaplains. There will also be books of condolence and a place to leave flowers. Until then we hold all people in our prayers.'

The Chairs of the London Methodist District, Revs Michaela Youngson and Nigel Cowgill, said: 'Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have died, those who are injured and those who mourn. We are again deeply moved by stories of courage shown by our emergency services and by members of the public who put themselves at risk to shield others from harm. As we offer prayers in churches and homes today, we pray that these events will not lead to the spread of fear in our city but that, once again, Londoners will stand united against those who would have us turn on each other in hate.'

Coptic Bishop Angaelos said: 'Celebrating Pentecost today, we pray that the Holy Spirit The Comforter sends his comfort to every victim and target of violence and terror.'

St George’s Cathedral, Southwark tweeted: 'On this Pentecost Day may the strength of the Holy Sport inspire us all so love overcomes the darkness of evil.' ...'Our hearts go out to those killed, injured and in any way affected by the atrocity at London Bridge last night.'

Fr Rob Esdaile, Parish Priest at Our Lady of Lourdes, Thames Ditton, wrote on his Facebook page:

London Bridge isn't falling down. And neither must we. 'Keep calm and carry on' may have been reduced to the level of cliche by a spate of tea-towels and coffee mugs but it remains true. And if terrorists attack bridges it is our duty to build them. On this Pentecost Sunday, come Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, melt our hearts and comfort all who grieve.'