In light of the events of the past week, Bishop Bev offers us a way to respond, encouraging us not to give up hope. She said:
“The spate of heinous crimes over this last week is not the norm. Be part of strengthening the community with your compassion and kindness. Do the right thing. Pray. Find sanctuary in your local church.”
She added:
“Our hearts ache at the news of the murder of a child in her own home.
“Our hearts ache for her mother unable to shield her daughter and for her family and friends.
“Our hearts ache for Liverpool reeling from another utterly senseless death, this time a little girl, and so hard on the heels of a series of killings by knife and gun crimes.”
She asks churches across the diocese remember those affected by violent crime in their thoughts and prayers. The parish church of the Holy Spirit, Dovecot, close to where Olivia lived, has been open throughout the day as a quiet and safe space for people to go inside, light a candle, sign the Book of Condolence or simply sit in the presence of the One who understands the hurting heart. People have been able to pray and talk through their feelings regardless of their faith or beliefs. St Luke’s has also been open for prayer. Liverpool Cathedral is open for prayer, to light a candle and for quiet reflection. Cathedral clergy are available for those who need to talk.
Bishop Bev encourages us further:
“Let us show empathy, kindness and compassion. Let’s walk alongside and encourage and offer a shoulder to cry on. We can listen to and help others find the words they need at a time like this.
“This is really important and part of the healing. The other key part is turning to God who endured the crucifixion and death at the hands of wickedness, who is alive and promises to comfort all who are mourning. Hearts are broken. It feels like the shards of a broken heart course the veins. When we seek the comfort of Jesus, it’s as though the pieces of the broken heart are pieced together. We shall never be the same, but we shall have strength and hope and we shall find peace.”
As people try to process the impact of violent crime this week on the victims and their families, Bishop Bev calls upon us all to remember the words of Bishop Desmond Tutu:
Love is stronger than hate
Light is stronger than darkness
Life is stronger than death