I am so numb and shocked by the news of what happened in Southport yesterday.

I can’t stop thinking about those families who 24 hours ago dropped their children off at a summer holiday yoga session, and then never saw their child alive again.

It doesn’t matter where evil happens in the world, it is horrendous. But this does feel very close to home. I met the owner of The Hart Space a few weeks ago. Me and Soph have been to family classes in Southport. My in-laws have just bought a house there. Me, Nathan and Soph have enjoyed many a family day out there, and before she arrived, Southport was one of our favourite spots for a meal out.

Last night, when the news broke about the poor souls who lost their lives, I encouraged Nathan to open up church for prayer and share it on social media. We have found that there is almost no benefit to living ‘on site’, but being able to respond quickly, and offer a place of peace in troubled times, is one of the good things about living nearby. I’ve encouraged people to come and light a candle in ASSF this morning while the Hub is open.

I don’t have any words of wisdom. Platitudes are just pointless. I believe Jesus when he said that those who mourn will be comforted. I pray that God will comfort all those people in pain and grief today. I pray that those who witnessed such horror yesterday would find peace and rest and healing. I pray for the community rocked by this, and that they would be able to grieve together and support one another.

Amen.