Statement following the attack at Bondi Beach from the Essex Faith Covenant

The terrible events in Bondi at Hanukkah over the weekend have shaken us all. What should have been a time of peace and community was instead marked by violence that tore through a joyous celebration.

Our thoughts are with those who were killed or injured, and with the families, friends and communities now facing unimaginable grief. The pain is felt far beyond Bondi, reaching every person who values safety, dignity and the freedom to worship without fear.

As leaders of Essex’s faith and community networks, we stand together in rejecting hatred in all its forms. Acts of terror seek to divide us, but they will never succeed.

We affirm that compassion, respect and solidarity are stronger than violence. By working side by side, across traditions and communities, we show that unity is not just a response to tragedy, it is the foundation of our shared existence.

The Essex Faith Covenant embodies this commitment. With more than forty faith communities and public services joined in partnership, we continue to build bridges of trust and understanding.

Let this moment remind us that resilience is born from togetherness, and that the values we hold - of peace, justice and mutual understanding - will always endure.

Hannah Kelly
Chair of the Essex Faith Covenant