Ards Churches Together condemn Westwind shooting
Church leaders from across the denominations and congregations in Newtownards have condemned the recent shooting in the Westwinds area of the town. They said in a statement:
“As a group of Church Leaders in Newtownards we wish to express our shock and sadness at the attack that took place on the evening of Friday 11th October in Sunderland Park, Westwinds.
“One of our colleagues in Westwinds has said, “We are appalled that this would happen so close to the homes of many of our members and beside a children’s play area, but moreover in this community at all…These attacks will continue to happen until communities speak out and say ‘enough’. Our prayer remains consistently for that to happen and for God to move in a powerful way.”
“Together, we urge those who plan and perpetrate attacks like these to realise the harm they cause to their own community, including their own family, friends and neighbours, when they engage in intimidation, fear and violence. This criminal activity has no place in any part of our town, which is known as a warm and welcoming place. Local church leaders are willing to talk confidentially to anyone who wants to turn their lives around.
“Anyone who has any relevant information can do their part for peace, safety and justice by passing it on to the police or by reporting it completely anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They will not ask for your name and the call will not appear on your bill.”