'The light shines in the darkness': Finding hope after Manchester

St Ann's Square Manchester Alex Baker Photography

Churches in Manchester are continuing to help the city grieve following the devastating terror attack last week.

22 people were killed at the Manchester Arena and in the initial response the City's Cathedral was cordoned off – meaning services were held in the street.

Now, though, churches are carrying on the quiet work of responding.

'Manchester Cathedral will be a place of prayer, reflection and hope in the coming days as we seek to deal with this tragedy,' a spokesperson told the Manchester Evening News. 'The clergy are available to provide any support and prayer for those who have been traumatised by this atrocity.'

Another Church, St Ann's, is adjacent to the main site of tributes, flowers and memorials. The curate there, Rev Jude Mitson said, 'The glow from tea-lights is a great reminder that 'the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it'. She went onto describe the role the church is playing as a sanctuary, 'People have welcomed the opportunity to step inside the church building and find a place of stillness - to sit, to pray, to add their words to the condolence book or light a candle.'

Churches across the city have been hosting prayer events, spaces for contemplation and vigils.

News
Open letter demands Nigerian government do more to end persecution and violence
Open letter demands Nigerian government do more to end persecution and violence

Nigerians have had enough of the government's failure to stop the endless violence.

The triumph of Christianity over the Viking raiders
The triumph of Christianity over the Viking raiders

The Anglo-Saxon Church to negotiate a way forward in a context which, at one time, would have seemed disastrous.

International community urged to intervene in Sudan as cycle of civil war continues
International community urged to intervene in Sudan as cycle of civil war continues

Most of Sudan's post-independence history has been marred by civil war.

New Barna study reveals how family life is being re-written in modern America
New Barna study reveals how family life is being re-written in modern America

While fewer Americans are married than in previous generations, the desire to wed has not disappeared - even as divorce, cohabitation and remarriage are reshaping family life, a study suggests.