Time for us all to speak out against acts of terror

STANDING on the steps of Dewsbury Town Hall, backed by Muslim Imans and facing a very diverse crowd, what did I feel? What could I say and, most importantly, what should be done next?

As a Christian I acknowledge I have many serious theological differences with Muslims and they have with me but at least it was heartening to see placards saying Muslims Against Terrorism. It was good to be invited by a Muslim leader to say a Christian prayer with those assembled there.

I was also happy to encourage all those younger, tech-savy folk to get onto the internet an speak out against the beliefs and ideals of those who would advocate acts of violence.

Any religion or sect that tries to impose its ideas by violence Some of the crowd of 500 who gathered in Dewsbury to remember the victims of the terrorist attack on the London Bridge and the Manchester Arena or coercion should be utterly unacceptable

‘Do as I say or I will kill you’ is an argument not worth the least consideration and the idea that dying while committing such abominable acts gains immediate entry to paradise is totally and utterly wrong.

It is rather a highway to hell. Here we can agree and not just with a passive nod.

Don’t leave speaking out to others for it only needs enough good people to be silent for evil to triumph.

What of the future? I hope there will be plenty of open debate. Criticisms need to be faced, not swept under the carpet.

Greater knowledge should come on all sides between those of all religions and none.

As it says in the Bible ‘as far as it lies with you, live at peace with all men.’ NOW we are back in the big time in terms of Premier League football surely the George Hotel could be brought back into proper use and what it was made for with the railway station as its neighbour.

There is bound to be accom-