what's new - archive
churches together
in britain and ireland
news
Press Release
CTBI Responds to Events in Norway: it is Important to Overcome the Language of Hate
Churches Together in Britain and Ireland was deeply shocked by the acts of violence in Norway on the 22nd July 2011. The General Secretary of CTBI, the Revd Bob Fyffe immediately wrote to his counterpart at the Norwegian Council of Churches to express his deep sorrow and assurances of the prayerful support of the churches in Britain and Ireland.
Bob Fyffe commented that we would want "you to know that all the member Churches in Britain and Ireland are remembering and praying for our dear friends and colleagues in Norway at this terrible time. You will continue to be held in our prayers and affection over the coming days and weeks, as you endeavour to rebuild so many aspects of your lovely way of life."
The Moderator of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, Margaret Swinson, has also been in touch with a number of people through the Porvoo Communion. The Moderator stated that "Norway has always been associated with peace and tranquillity. It is our hope and prayer that this will return to the Norwegian people very soon."
Since the events of last week there have been numerous reports in the media that the perpetrator was a "Christian fundamentalist" with links to far right groups in Britain. Although evidence has yet to emerge of this, CTBI would wish to categorically state than none of our member churches would ever support or justify acts of violence such as this. Furthermore none of our member churches have used or endorsed hateful language towards Muslims (or any other faith) such as used by the perpetrator of these acts - indeed, a number of Churches have adopted strong and unequivocal policies against those who join far right groups.
CTBI's member churches - working through the Churches' Racial Justice Network and the Churches' Inter-Religious Network - have for many years shown their strong commitment to overcoming racism in society and to working towards better understanding and respect between people of all religions. The terrible and tragic events in Norway reinforce the importance of this work as an integral part of the churches' witness to Christ's Gospel of love and justice for all.
End
For further information contact the Revd Bob Fyffe 0845 680 6851 or email 
