Faith leaders urge communities to ‘remember what unites us’

In their statement, leaders from Merseyside’s Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu and Sikh communities said a week on from “that terrible day” should be a “time for quiet reflection and remembrance”, but “too many people” had sought to “use the tragedy to create division and hate”.

“Division can destroy the very relationships and environment that we depend upon every day of our lives and there is no place for hate in our communities,” they said.

“It can – and has – left communities in fear and has put people in danger.

“At this difficult time, let us remember that there is far more that unites than divides us.”

They said the examples set by those people who “came out to sweep the streets”, rebuild walls and “generously” donate money in memory of the three girls showed the “spirit that will help us through this incredibly challenging time”.

“We need to remain calm and peaceful at this time and as faith leaders, we are united in our desire for peace and justice,” they said.

“While the events of this week may continue to shake our belief in humanity, it remains intact.

“Now is the time to take pride in our community spirit again.”