The Oxfordshire Civic, Community and Faith Leaders Group has today issued the following statement in response to the devastating terrorist attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester:
“We are deeply shocked and profoundly saddened by the terrorist attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester, which occurred on Yom Kippur, a sacred day of reflection and renewal for the Jewish community.This appalling act of violence, targeting people gathered in prayer, is not only an attack on the Jewish community but an affront to all who cherish freedom of worship and human dignity. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and our prayers for recovery and healing to all who have been injured or traumatised.
We pay tribute to the courage of the synagogue’s security personnel and worshippers, whose swift actions helped prevent an even greater tragedy, and we commend the emergency services for their rapid and dedicated response.
This incident is a grave reminder of the urgent need to confront antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of hate-driven extremism. Our shared commitment is clear: places of worship must remain sanctuaries of peace, safety, and reflection for every community.
In this moment of sorrow, we stand united as civic leaders, faith leaders, and community representatives—together in grief, in solidarity, and in firm resolve. We affirm our conviction that love, justice, and peace will always prevail over hatred and violence.”
Imam Monawar Hussain, Founder, The Oxford Foundation; Louise Gordon, Vice President, Oxford Jewish Congregation; The Rt Revd Gavin Collins, Bishop of Dorchester.
On behalf of the Oxfordshire Civic Community and Faith Leaders Group
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About the Diocese of Oxford
The Diocese of Oxford is the Church of England in the Thames Valley region of Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. There are over 800 churches in 609 parishes, the largest number of churches of any diocese in the Church of England. The diocese is also home to 284 schools and academies educating some 60,000 pupils.