The North West England Methodist District stand in solidarity with the Muslim community in Greater Manchester following the security incident that occurred on Tuesday 24th February 2026.
We share below the statement from the Greater Manchester Faith and Belief Advisory Panel:
As members of the Greater Manchester Faith and Belief Advisory Panel and as Greater Manchester Faith Community Leaders, we stand in solidarity with all members of the Muslim community in Greater Manchester following yesterday’s serious security incident at Manchester Central Mosque (Victoria Park).
We are appalled that this should have happened during Taraweeh prayers in the blessed month of Ramadan when mosques are at their busiest.
We all deserve to feel safe in our respective faith centres and to be able to worship and pray without fear.
We note the statement from Greater Manchester Police that they are taking this incident very seriously and have increased patrols around mosques at what is a really important time for Muslim communities as they come together during Ramadan and that Manchester Central Mosque have urged all mosque attendees to remain vigilant.
We stand with our Muslim brothers and sisters and wish you a peaceful and blessed Ramadan.
With love and in solidarity
Revd. Canon Ian Rutherford and Manjari Patel
Co-Chairs on behalf of Greater Manchester Faith and Belief Advisory Panel
We also share the following prayer of solidarity, written by Rev Raj Patta on behalf of the Stockport Multifaith Network:
God of peace and compassion,
We hold our Muslim friends and neighbours in our thoughts and prayers following the serious security incident that occurred at Manchester Central Mosque on 24 February 2026, as they gathered for Taraweeh prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.
We give thanks for the swift and courageous actions of volunteers, congregants, and the police in responding to this incident and in helping to keep people safe.
For those who are distressed, may there be peace.
For those who are experiencing trauma, may there be healing.
For those who are frightened, may there be strength.
For those who feel unsafe, may there be reassurance and protection.
We pray that our Muslim brothers and sisters will have a peaceful and blessed season of Ramadan.
May we, as people of different faiths and beliefs, stand in solidarity with one another, united against Islamophobia, racism, hatred, and division, and committed to living with mutual respect, dignity, and care for all.
May we work together for the shared flourishing of our communities and our world.
Amen.