Ways to respond to the riots and protests across the UK
In recent days protests and riots have unfolded across several towns and cities in the UK, in response to the violent attack in Southport where three young girls were killed. Many of us are asking what our response as Christians should be. Here are some suggestions to help you to ‘seek the peace and prosperity of the city’ at this time (Jeremiah 29:7).
1. Pray
There are lots of ways you can pray at this time:
Pray for the victims of the attack in Southport on 29th July. Pray for the families of the young girls who were killed, those injured and the community of Southport.
Pray for refugees and people seeking asylum who are being targeted by protests and riots.
Pray for muslims who are being targeted by protests.
Pray for the protestors and rioters who are showing fear and anger.
Pray for the police and the authorities as they work hard to bring law and order.
Pray for our churches to be filled with God’s Spirit to be peacemakers in our communities.
Pray for ourselves. Ask God to reveal any fear in our hearts, and ask for his help to share his perfect love to the world around us.
2. Learn
It is important to try to understand more about what is happening in our communities. This includes thinking and learning about:
Where is the fear in your community? Why is there fear?
Who are the new arrivals in your community? Why are they coming and what do they need?
Who is protesting and rioting in your community? Why are they angry? What do they need?
Who are the victims of the riots and protests? What do they need?
Who does your church have a responsibility towards? What does the Bible say about welcoming people seeking refuge?
3. Serve
We have often seen churches standing in the gap between local communities and asylum seeking communities at times of protest.
How can your church serve your community at this time? Who is in need of a safe place to meet? How can you serve the victims of the attacks?
Are there also ways you can serve the people who are angry in your community at this time?
4. Welcome
Violent events highlight again the need for our churches to continue to welcome people seeking refuge and asylum in our communities and to show welcome and compassion to them. We know that our Christian faith compels us to do this. Welcome Churches is ready to help your church to do this, and to help you to connect with those arriving in your community.
Our communities need our churches right now. We are needed to help show a better way, and to work with others to bring our communities closer together.
Welcome Churches is equipping local churches to continue to welcome everyone seeking refuge in our communities, which is needed now more than ever. Could you consider giving a regular donation to help us see every refugee welcomed by the local Church? Click here to donate today.