Events

This September, Archbishop Wilson and the Archdiocese of Southwark Safeguarding Team, in partnership with LOUDfence, will be holding a service of Acknowledgment, Prayer and Reflection.

LOUDfence

LOUDfence is a visible display of support and solidarity with those affected by abuse. The ribbons tied to each fence/tree/gate represent the voices of those who wish to speak out  in support and defence of those affected by abuse.

Activist Anotnia Sobocki, of “Survivors Voices” and End Church Abuse who first brought the LOUDfence to the UK in 2020, at the parish of Kirkbampton, Cumbria explains:

“We want all survivors and victims of abuse to know that we believe you, we will hear and support you and we will do all we can to prevent this happening again. People are invited to join in by tying a ribbon, pausing to reflect, offering a prayer and making a resolution in solidarity with survivors,” 

LOUDfence and Survivors Voices, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Southwark, will hold their annual event on the 27th September 2023 at 6.30 pm, and invite everyone to join them St George’s Cathedral in order to attend a Service of Acknowledgement, Prayer and Reflection, led by Archbishop John Wilson, for those that have been harmed by abuse and for those that support them.

After the service, everyone is invited to tie a ribbon on the tree of reflection and perhaps write a personal message of support or prayer for those who have been harmed by abuse or to show your commitment to end abuse.

After the event there will be an opportunity for light refreshments and to meet with the safeguarding team and friends in Amigo Hall, next to the Cathedral. All are welcome

Virtual Ribbon

If you are unable to attend the service at St George’s Cathedral, Southwark, on the 27th September 2023, you can still take part by leaving a 'virtual ribbon',

This is an opportunity to leave a personal message of support for those who have been harmed by abuse, or a statement of commitment to work towards the end of abuse.