'The light shines in the darkness': Finding hope after Manchester

St Ann's Square Manchester Alex Baker Photography

Churches in Manchester are continuing to help the city grieve following the devastating terror attack last week.

22 people were killed at the Manchester Arena and in the initial response the City's Cathedral was cordoned off – meaning services were held in the street.

Now, though, churches are carrying on the quiet work of responding.

'Manchester Cathedral will be a place of prayer, reflection and hope in the coming days as we seek to deal with this tragedy,' a spokesperson told the Manchester Evening News. 'The clergy are available to provide any support and prayer for those who have been traumatised by this atrocity.'

Another Church, St Ann's, is adjacent to the main site of tributes, flowers and memorials. The curate there, Rev Jude Mitson said, 'The glow from tea-lights is a great reminder that 'the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it'. She went onto describe the role the church is playing as a sanctuary, 'People have welcomed the opportunity to step inside the church building and find a place of stillness - to sit, to pray, to add their words to the condolence book or light a candle.'

Churches across the city have been hosting prayer events, spaces for contemplation and vigils.

News
Richard Moth appointed as new Archbishop of Westminster
Richard Moth appointed as new Archbishop of Westminster

Bishop Richard Moth has been confirmed as the new Archbishop of Westminster, the most senior post in the Catholic Church in England and Wales. 

The mystery of the Wise Men
The mystery of the Wise Men

The carol assures us that “We three kings of Orient are…” and tells us they were “following yonder star”. Can we be sure there were three of them? Were they kings? Where in the Orient were they from? What was the star they followed? In fact, there is a lot that we just do not know. This is the story …

English Heritage deletes debunked claims about pagan origins of Christmas Day
English Heritage deletes debunked claims about pagan origins of Christmas Day

English Heritage has admitted it got it wrong when it shared false claims that the date of Christmas is derived from a pagan Roman festival in honour of a sun god.

Guinness Book of Records recognises 'the world’s longest serving Sunday School teacher'
Guinness Book of Records recognises 'the world’s longest serving Sunday School teacher'

Pam Knowles started helping out her church Sunday school in 1951 at the age of 13.