Bishop of Liverpool prays for comfort after shocking knife attack on kid’s dance class

The Bishop of Liverpool has spoken of his shock after a knifeman attacked a kid’s Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, just north of the town. 

Two children were killed and 6 children and two adults critically injured within the attack shortly before midday on Monday. The school holiday club had been fully booked with 25 children aged six to 11. A 17 12 months old is being questioned by police in reference to the attack. 

Local churches have opened their doors for members of the community in need of a quiet space or someone to confer with.

The Bishop of Liverpool, John Perumbalath, said the tragedy had shocked the “quiet” community of Southport. 

“Today, as we’ve got more information in regards to the horrific events in Southport our prayers are with the family and friends of the murdered children. May God comfort the bereaved and support them at this difficult time,” he said. 

“We also pray for many who remain critically injured in hospital asking God to surround them with love.

“This tragedy has shocked a quiet community and we pray for them. Churches across Southport are open for prayer and our clergy will proceed to support those in need.” 

The Catholic Archbishop of Liverpool, Malcolm McMahon, said he was holding all those affected by the tragedy in his thoughts and prayers and asked people to hope “for peace, healing, and justice”. 

“For those that have been injured, for many who are parents, family, and friends of the injured, for all involved within the emergency services, we pray for God’s blessing, God’s peace, and God’s presence today,” he said. 

Christ Church Southport, which is one in all the various churches opening their doors to the area people, said it was “heartbroken” over the attack.

“Our hearts and prayers exit to all those that have been affected. For those fighting in hospital, for those whose world has fallen apart, for many who are afraid, for many who first responded, for many who know someone that was there, for our town,” the church said in a message posted to its Facebook page.