We condemn unequivocally the recent attacks on London’s synagogues, Jewish charities and establishments. These antisemitic acts are abhorrent. Intended to intimidate Jewish communities and to make Londoners fearful in their own places of worship, they are wholly at odds with the values of our city, and our society.
When any religious or faith community is targeted, it damages the life of our city as a whole. In speaking out, we do so as bishops and as leaders with responsibility for communities across London. Violence, hatred and intimidation directed at people of any faith undermine trust, fracture relationships, and corrode the foundations of a diverse and peaceful society.
All people must be able to live, gather and worship in safety, without threat or hostility. We stand in solidarity with those directly affected and with London’s Jewish communities at this deeply distressing time.
Antisemitism does not exist in isolation. It sits within a wider pattern of religious hate and racism. No form of prejudice should be normalised, excused or left unchallenged. We call on those with responsibility in public life to act decisively to protect all places of worship, to challenge hatred wherever it appears, and to give clear reassurance to communities who feel increasingly vulnerable.
Our Christian faith teaches us that every person is made in the image of God. That conviction calls us to stand alongside our Jewish neighbours today, and to work for a London tomorrow in which fear has no authority and hatred finds no shelter.