The community came together for a Service of Hope at Southwark Cathedral following the London Bridge terror attack.
The service on Friday, June 23, was organised for those affected locally and followed the National Service of Hope held a week earlier for first responders, survivors and the families of those who died in the attack on June 3.
The Sub Dean and Pastor, The Revd Canon Michael Rawson, welcomed those gathered at the cathedral and spoke of the Archbishop’s words at the national service in which he said that the terrible violence experienced had made the community more united.
The Bishop of Woolwich, The Rt Revd Dr Woyin Karowei Dorgu, led the service and read a message from the Bishop of Southwark, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun.
He also led an act of remembrance and commitment with leaders of other faiths.
The Cathedral School choir sang ‘Make me a channel of your peace’ and the Borough Market Choir sang ‘Lean on me’.
The Revd Canon Steve Chalke, founder of the charity Oasis and Ecumenical Canon of Southwark Cathedral, gave a sermon in which he said the service was one of hope – but that, for some, the recollection of the events was hard as people had died and lives had been changed.
He went on to say that it was a moment to pause and reflect and consider how we would live in the light of all that had happened.
Canon Michael Rawson said: “We are pleased to have been able to offer this service of hope to the local community as it seeks to recover and rebuild following the events of the evening of June 3.
“We hope that the candles which have been lit here today can be a sign of hope for the future, reminding us all that light will overcome darkness.”