The Bishop of Chester has expressed his deep concern and prayers for all caught up in the shocking events in Liverpool on Bank Holiday Monday, 26 May.
Bishop Mark said: "Today was meant to be a celebration of sporting excellence and community spirit here on Merseyside, yet once again we stand together in shock and grief, and with gratitude for our emergency services, and all who care.
Bishop Julie, the Bishop of Birkenhead provided the following statement and prayer, representing Churches Together in Merseyside Region (CTMR).
We are appalled and saddened by the events that unfolded in the wake of Liverpool's victory parade. Those who simply wanted to celebrate and witness what should ahve been an unforgettable moment for all the right reasons, are now confronted with trauma and pain that will forever shadow this day. The full circumstances have yet to emerge, and this is not a time for assumption or speculation. Let us instead come together as a community and hold those caught up in this dreadful incident in our thoughts and our prayers. Without in anyway diminishing their ordeal, let us remember that this is an isolated incident, and our city will always be defined by all that this parade was intended to epitomise. We will never walk alone!
CTMR offer this prayer for those who might find it helpful:
Gracious and loving God
Bring peace to out troubled city
Calm to our aching hearts
And hope in the midst of disbelief and despair.
Help us not to pass judgement on what we do not yet know,
As we hold in our thoughts and prayers
Those who suffer the physical and mental scars of this dreadful event.
Though our celebrations have so cruelly turned to tragedy,
Help us to stand more strongly together,
And remain champions of goodness and compassion.
AMEN