Rainbows across Leeds city centre looked down over a vigil for Berlin victims on 5 August
The congregations of Stainbeck and St Andrew’s Roundhay United Reformed churches were among those represented at a vigil held for victims of the attack that took place during a Pride celebration in Berlin’s Tiergarten last month.
The vigil was held at Leeds Minster, coordinated by the Revd Mo Onyett, a minister in the Leeds South and West Methodist Circuit. Candles were lit and a minute’s silence was held for all those affected by the attack, which took place on 25 July.
One woman was killed and 29 others were injured, some seriously, when a van was driven into a crowd of pedestrians during the event, which is also known as Christopher Street Day Berlin.
Leeds City Council showed solidarity with the vigil by illuminating council buildings in rainbow colours – and in the sky, nature showed solidarity with its own rainbow.
“The rainbow over Leeds Minster and the candles lit inside reminded us that we are not alone,” said one participant, who added: “Love calls us to oppose hatred and work for the freedom and dignity of LGBTQ+ people, and all people.”
Stainbeck and St Andrew’s Roundhay URCs are both member congregations of the Leeds URC Partnership.