The World Council of Churches (WCC) has sent a message of solidarity to the victims of today’s bomb explosions in London. Four blasts stunned London’s Underground network and ripped through a packed rush-hour bus early on Thursday. The attacks signal the worst assault on London since the Second World War.
Latest figures show that at least 45 people were killed and more than 100 have been wounded in the terrorist attacks, with at least 45 of these serious or critical according to Associated Press reports.
The WCC totally rejected the violent actions, and the General Secretary, Rev Samuel Kobia send has sent a message to the churches and people of the United Kingdom.
Kobia expressed how his heart was heavy after hearing the news and he was filled with sadness and concern.
He also said, "I convey my condolences to the relatives and friends of those who were killed."
Kobia continued, "We pray to the Lord for peace and hope for all of them and for the inhabitants of London and the United Kingdom, who feel their lives to be in danger after these terrible events."
In a statement released by the Evangelical Alliance UK (EAUK) the organisation called on its members to pray for the families of those killed and injured by the multiple explosions in London.
A spirit of peace and mercy was encouraged, and the EAUK urged people no to allow feelings of panic or revenge come to them.
The General Director of the Evangelical Alliance in the UK, Rev Joel Edwards, "We pray earnestly for those who have suffered loss or injury today and call on God to bind up the broken hearted. I have found Psalm 46 a great comfort at this time."
The Bishop of London has also commented on the tragic incidents that have been witnessed across England’s capital. Rev Richard Chartres said, "This is a grave day for London. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured and the bereaved and also with the Emergency Services who have responded so rapidly. London's clergy have been working alongside the Emergency Services since early this morning and churches close to affected areas have been opened for shelter, aid and prayer."
Also Prime Minister Tony Blair, clearly shaken by the unfolding events condemned the attacks as barbaric and stated that they were designed to coincide with the G8 Summit in Gleneagles, Scotland.
A group calling itself "The Secret Organisation of Al-Qaida in Europe" has apparently claimed responsibility for the bombings.
