WCC News: WCC condemns attack on synagogue in Manchester

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay condemned an attack on a synagogue, Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation, in Manchester, in northwestern England on 2 October where two people were killed outside the synagogue in a vehicle ramming and stabbing attack on Yom Kippur.  Photo: Albin Hillert/Life on Earth 03 October 2025 The attack occurred in an area of Manchester that is home to many Orthodox Jews. About 30,000 Jewish people live in Manchester, the largest number in the United Kingdom outside of London.  "The assault is an egregious and unacceptable act of terror against innocent people gathered for a holy day,” said Pillay. “We extend condolences and prayers for all those who lost loved ones and who were traumatized by this senseless act.” Pillay added that “The international community must continue to support peacebuilding and reconciliation across the world. We must reject extremism in all its forms and join in prayer and action for justice, healing, and lasting peace.” See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 356 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland