Bishops denounce violence during riots across the UK
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales have joined others in criticizing the recent far-right generated anti-immigration riots in the UK.
Violence disrupted several towns and cities in the UK during the weekend, resulting in around 100 people being charged. Gangs shouting anti-immigration insults attacked various businesses they considered to be owned by immigrants. They smashed windows, set shops on fire. Many shop owners had to barricade themselves inside out of fear. The perpetrators carried Union Jack and Irish flags, which is uncommon in Northern Ireland.
Bishop Paul McAleenan is the Lead Bishop for Migrants and Refugees. He firmly believes that anti-immigration groups fuel violence and create a split in society. He has asked everyone to join in praying for peace and praised emergency services “who selflessly continue to work despite the risks. I condemn the appalling violence over the past week, especially that directed at migrants and their places of residence. They demonstrate a complete disregard of the values which underpin the civil life of our country. Today, and always, we need to continue to pray, work and stand together for peace in our country.”
The Bishop of Connor, Right Reverend George Davison, and the Bishop of Down and Dromore, Right Reverend David McClay, also condemned the violence in their joint statement: “Words and actions that lead to violence on our streets, the damage of property, and putting the safety of people at risk cannot be condoned but must be condemned by all of us. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus Christ taught that our neighbour is the person whom we meet, whatever their background, race or belief. It is imperative on the Church then, in every local context, to find ways to welcome the stranger, to care for the refugee, and to extend God’s love, kindness, grace and care to every person that we meet. In reaching towards others with welcome and blessing in every way we can, we demonstrate faithfulness to the call of Jesus and a better way to live. We have made strides forward in Northern Ireland in terms of reconciliation and the pursuit of all that makes for peace. This is a time for all of us to work together, pursuing acts of welcome and kindness which are always stronger and more powerful than anything that flows from fear and prejudice.”
