August 8, 2011

Tottenham's faith leaders, politicians and youth leaders from across the local community will attend a "Vigil of Hope," Aug. 8 in a united response to the weekend's violence.

The vigil has been organized by local churches from the Church of England, the Roman Catholic Church, the Methodist Church, the United Reformed Church and Pentecostalist and Independent churches, with representatives from the Muslim and Jewish faiths also expected to attend, along with David Lammy, Parliament member for Tottenham, and Claire Kober, leader of Haringey Council. The event will include collective prayers for the community and addresses from faith leaders.

The bishop of Edmonton, local bishop for the Diocese of London (Church of England), the Rt. Rev. Peter Wheatley said: "These events cannot be allowed to define the Tottenham we know and love.

"Many of us have worked in this community for many years and we know the loving, generous and openhearted people with whom we share our daily lives are not the rioters who have destroyed so much. What has happened will not conquer the hope which is set before us. We will continue to share that hope with our neighbors and friends as we move to rebuild in Tottenham."

Church of England parishes in Tottenham are providing practical help for members of the community affected by the violence. St Mary the Virgin on Lansdowne Road is at the heart of where much of the trouble has been and is providing support for those whose homes and businesses have been affected, including distributing meals and providing hot water and phone charging facilities to those who were left without electricity.

The bishop of Edmonton added: "Our hearts and prayers go out to all those affected, including those who have been made homeless and local business owners whose livelihoods have been threatened. Together, our churches already run a multitude of activities supporting all members of the community, irrespective of their faith, and these efforts will be continued and where possible extended."

Episcopal News Service
Diocese of London