Archbishop John: Violence is never the answer
On Knife Crime Awareness Week, Archbishop John calls for an end to youth violence
Archbishop John Wilson has issued a video message for Knife Crime Awareness Week, calling for an end to youth violence and urged us all to show we are "people of peace".
The video has been released as part of Caritas Southwark's work with the Mizen Foundation and the Synergy Network's One Pledge, One Change campaign.
In his message, the Archbishop said: "Tragically, knife crime continues to blight our communities. With more young people losing their lives to violence each week. Violence is never the answer. We cannot solve anything with violence".
Pointing to the Prince of Peace, the Lord Jesus, Archbishop John said:
The Lord Jesus loves each of us, individually. Because of Him, we are all brothers and sisters – because of him we are part of one family. And Jesus’ message to us cannot be clearer: ‘blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God”.
In a call for community action, Archbishop John added "Together, let us show we are people of peace. Together, let us say no more to this senseless violence".
You can find out more about Knife Crime Awareness Week, which runs from 19 to 25 May 2025, at knifecrimeawarenessweek.org.uk/.
