Andrew Teale's Message Continued...
“After Dunblane, it was recognised by many in Britain, including the families of the victims, that the most significant factor in the tragedy had been the ease with which the perpetrator had accessed guns, in his case high-powered handguns. At the time, UK legislation allowed him to own these legally. The Dunblane families and others campaigned to have handguns banned and we didn’t allow ourselves to be distracted by those who said gun ownership was not the issue.
It should go without saying that no matter what other factors are involved, the only one common to all mass shootings is that the person responsible had a gun. Thanks to massive public support, which was channelled through the Dunblane families, other campaigners, the media and a significant number of politicians, the successive Conservative and Labour governments passed legislation in 1997 and introduced a ban on the private ownership of handguns. The changes not only reduced the availability of a dangerous type of weapon but indicated the direction the UK wanted to take, one which minimised the use and availability of guns and always placed public safety at the top of the agenda. Since the late 1990s the levels of gun crime in Britain have fallen significantly, gun homicides are rare and there have been very few other multiple shootings.”
I can ask everyone to take a moment to pray for those families and the Texas community, so far away and yet so close for those who spend their days in schools. To pray a blessing on those children everywhere who die in violence and fear. To pray for those families who are left behind with shattered lives. To pray for the wounded whose pain lives on with them. To pray for the survivors who heard and saw things they should never have had to see. To pray for humanity that we might find a way to stop the senseless killing.
As we mark the Ascension of Jesus this week after death was overcome. We know those innocents have ascended too, to a place of safety and peace where they will only ever be surrounded by love. They can no longer be harmed in this cruel world that has failed them in every way, as they are untouchable in His loving arms. For those left still hurting in His earthly Kingdom, we can only try to find ways to learn from what has happened to find ways to keep our schools and precious children safe from those who would harm them. We must do better.
Collect for Ascension Day
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that as we believe your only-begotten Son our Lord Jesus Christ
to have ascended into the heavens,
so we in heart and mind may also ascend
and with him continually dwell;
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Amen
Thankfully there has also been love and joy across our diocese this week as the tweets and post show countless celebrations for the platinum jubilee of HRH Queen Elizabeth in recognition of the decades of loyal service she has given to this country. These events are so important for our school communities. They make memories that will last a lifetime. I still remember winning a small toy car after winning the sack race at a silver jubilee event in 1977. It was orange (and remains my greatest ever sporting achievement). I know how much extra work goes into organising these events behind the scenes. So, our education system is in need of refreshment once again, but thankfully, half term arrives today. I hope everyone has a peaceful and restful break and that you enjoy some restorative time with families and friends.
Blessings and best wishes,
Andrew
Canon Andrew Teale
Diocesan Director of Education
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