I am sure that we were all horrified by the news of the attack on the Manchester Synagogue today. We are told by commentators that there has been a significant increase in antisemitism over the last two years. And we are all aware of the situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza that is responsible. There are opposing wills and opposing narratives, but nothing justifies violence against institutions or individuals in this country because of the views they espouse…and nothing…nothing…justifies an attack on a place of worship or on individuals because of the faith they follow. The ‘Together for Hope’ plaque has a prominent place on our altar and that message of standing together goes for all faiths, whether or not they are represented in our own community. An attack on one faith is intended to break down the bonds of friendship and community between faiths. An attack on one faith is an attack on all faiths. We only need to look at the continuing history of Christian antisemitism to know that no faith is immune from hatred of the other. We only need to look around the world today to see that no faith is immune from being the victim of prejudice. In our shared guilt and innocence, we continue to stand together and, despite everything, we continue to hope. In 1624, John Donne, clergyman and poet, wrote the following lines. They are as true today as they were then. No man is an island, Entire of itself. Each is a piece of the continent, A part of the main.If a clod is washed away by the sea,Europe is the less.As well as if a promontory were.As well as if a manor of thine ownOr of thine friend's were.Each man's death diminishes me,or I am involved in mankind. Therefore, send not to knowFor whom the bell tolls,It tolls for thee.
