Guest Blog by Debbie Sayers-Fullwood, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Southport
I had the tremendous pleasure of attending the Unity Walk, which started at the Southport Mosque, this morning.
It was followed by lunch, discussions and a tour of Southport’s Synagogue.
From the moment I arrived at the mosque I was welcomed and invited to take part in the proceedings of the day. Everyone was so friendly and the people who gathered were from many walks of life, some who had been directly affected by the riots, and those with no connection at all, but motivated by the shocking events. There were different religious backgrounds represented and those of no religion at all.
Discussions were initiated and pictures were taken. We then started our walk, in the pouring rain, but the weather did not dampen our spirits or resolve.
We passed shops whose staff came out to cheer and lend their support.
I was able to share my umbrella with a gentleman who had heard about the event last night and had travelled up from London this morning to take part.
After passing the old St Mark’s Church building we were soon at the synagogue.
Some inspirational speeches were given from both the Imam, and several Jewish leaders, all focusing on our similarities and the fact that division must be rejected and unity and understanding should be embraced. We were then invited to break bread together and discuss more of our hopes and plans for a more unified future.
The event was rounded off by an informative and very gracious tour of the synagogue, which is stunningly beautiful and steeped in history.
As a Christian, representing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, I, like the vast majority of people, was appalled at the horrendous display of unrest and thuggery that started in our town, then spread to many areas of the country, following the killings of the three beautiful little girls.
These riots robbed those families affected, and our town, of precious moments to grieve properly. It was utterly appalling.
Thankfully, most of us see the need to reject the fear, prejudice and hatred that was fuelled by a small minority. I personally believe we are all children of the same God, though we may worship differently, we are, like any family, stronger together.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful, and a fitting legacy to those little girls if this Walk of Unity was adopted all over the country and it became an annual display of our commitment to stand together.
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