Church Leaders Praise London’s Spirit amid New Bomb Attacks

In the aftermath of the latest attacks in London, tensions have once again been raised by efforts of terrorists to instigate fear among the British people. However, surrounded by the chaos that the terrorists have attempted to bring to the streets, Londoners have been praised by senior clergy for their spirit and resilience to such extreme circumstances.

Yesterday, exactly two weeks following the 7/7 bombings that killed at least 56 people, a similar styled attack was made on the London transport system again. This time, however, it appears as if the bombs failed to explode properly and there has only been reported one injury from the latest incidences.

Over the past week Church leaders have praised the spirit shown by Londoners in the wake of the terror to hit the city. The Bishop of London, Rev Richard Chartres attended a vigil at Trafalgar Square last week, and used the opportunity to honour the work of Londoners to get the city moving and operating as normal once again.

Rev Chartres said, "For the emergency services, for the police and all those working in the hospitals for the men and women who continue to drive our buses and tubes, we are proud of them and grateful to them. They are Christians and Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs and people of no particular faith but they all are Londoners.

"These criminal actions are a call to Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus and Sikhs, people of every kind of faith and none, to reject the idolatrous fantasies which set community against community and to walk in the way of the spirit, whose fruits are love and joy and peace," he said.

In addition, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rev Rowan Williams commented, "London goes on as usual with great courage and great calm. The anxiety, of course, is the knowledge that it seems to be British-born people and it’s just a reminder that terrorism knows no boundaries. I think emotionally it makes it harder for people"

The leader of the 70-million member worldwide Anglican Communion tried to rally Londoners and make then realise with a thankful heart all that they should be grateful for.

Dr Williams said, "There’s a lot to be grateful for, lots of openings, lots of willingness to work together and that is crucial for the future."

In addition to all mainstream Christian denominational heads speaking out against the bombings, a joint statement was also released from religious leaders of all faiths, including Christians, Muslims, Sikhs and Jews. The statement recorded, "Attacks on the innocent can never be justified by any argument, religious or secular. Solidarity amongst all faiths and cultures is vital at a time of sorrow and anger and we must continue to stand firmly together to show that what unites us is stronger than the evil that tries to divide us."

Following yesterday’s attempted bombings, further commotion has been seen this morning on the London Underground network as a reported shooting has been reported. The apparent cause has not yet been identified but eye witnesses have said that a number of police were involved in chasing the suspect, and paramedics were called to the area.