Following this week’s terror attack in Golders Green, The Rt Revd Paul Davies, Bishop of Dorking and Acting Bishop of Guildford, has issued a message of solidarity to the Jewish community.
He said: “I am deeply hurt and appalled by the very distressing terror attack in Golders Green. My prayers are particularly with the victims, their families, friends and community. The rise of antisemitism in London and elsewhere in our country is deeply disturbing.
“I rejoice in the very close friendship enjoyed between the Diocese of Guildford and the Jewish community in Surrey and Hampshire. Their support of me and the diocese in the past few months, as we have mourned the death of Bishop Andrew, has been a moving expression of the love and affection between both communities.
“I stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and my friends across the faith communities in Surrey and Hampshire in protecting the fundamental right of every person to hold and practice their faith without any form of discrimination, and to the condemnation of all hatred and violence. Bishop Andrew spoke powerfully in the House of Lords in support of freedom of religious belief and worked to protect that right in our diocese. I am committed to continue that work and am in touch with my friends across the faith communities as we join together in pursuit of justice and peace.
“Please join me in holding our precious friends in the Jewish community in your prayers at this time.”