Statement from Rt Rev’d Dr Peter Carrell, Bishop of Christchurch

Dear Friends,

The tragic, violence this afternoon in Christchurch—an ongoing situation as I write—will already be a matter for prayer for you.

Let’s pray and continue praying for those who have been injured, for those who care for them, for those who are sorrowing and for our police and other services who are working hard and bravely to bring this shocking event to a peaceful end. We understand that some of the central city churches are opening up their doors for prayer, once they are able to do so safely. We have heard that All Souls' Merivale will be doing so.

Many of us will have family and friends who have been affected by the disruption to central Christchurch, some of whom may still be in a “lock-down” situation. Prayer for our inner Christchurch city ministers (all denominations), our schools, our hospitals and our chaplains would be much appreciated.

Especially, let’s pray for the Muslim community of Christchurch who appear to be the single community most affected by the shootings.

No religious organisation or group deserves to be the target of someone’s hate – regardless of beliefs.

May God be merciful to us all,

+Peter

Rt Rev’d Dr Peter Carrell, Bishop of Christchurch

15 March, 2019