Emmaus Partnership
The Archdiocese of Southwark Safeguarding Team, in partnership with LOUDfence, are holding a service of acknowledgement, prayer and reflection for victims of abuse and those who support them.
The service will be led by Archbishop John Wilson at St George’s Cathedral in Southwark on Wednesday 27 September at 6.30pm.
LOUDfence has been in the UK since 2020 and is a way for people to visibly support and show solidarity with those affected by abuse. Acts of support and solidarity can include tying ribbons to a fence, tree or gate as a representation of the voices of those who want to speak out against abuse.
After the service, everyone will be invited to tie a ribbon on a fence of reflection at the Cathedral. People will be able to write a prayer or message of support for those harmed by abuse.
Activist Anotnia Sobocki, of “Survivors Voices” and End Church Abuse who first brought the LOUDfence to the UK in 2020, at the parish of Kirkbampton, Cumbria explains:
“We want all survivors and victims of abuse to know that we believe you, we will hear and support you and we will do all we can to prevent this happening again. People are invited to join in by tying a ribbon, pausing to reflect, offering a prayer and making a resolution in solidarity with survivors.”
For those unable to attend the service, there is an opportunity to take part by leaving a ‘virtual ribbon’ to show support for those harmed by abuse. This can be done on the Archdiocese of Southwark’s website.
At the end of the service, refreshments will be available in Amigo Hall – next to the Cathedral – where members of the Southwark Safeguarding Team will also be present.
For more information on the Archdiocese of Southwark’s Safeguarding Team, including how to access support, to report any concerns or how to get in touch with them please visit their website.
Service of Acknowledgment and Reflection for those harmed by abuse: in partnership with LOUDfence. Wednesday 27 September 2023, 6.30pm, St George’s Cathedral, Lambeth Road, London, SE1 7HY.
