Vigil for Violent Crime, Liverpool

A special service of reflection will take place at Liverpool Cathedral today (Friday 23 September) to remember young people who have lost their lives through violence.

Vigil for Violent Crime, 6.30pm 23rd September 2022. Liverpool Cathedral.

The vigil will take place from 6.30pm to bring together the family and friends of young victims who have been killed as a result of violent crimes, such as gun and knife crime.

There will be a series of live music performances, poetry readings and speeches by those who have been affected by these violent tragedies.

The service is open to the public and those attending will be encouraged to light a candle at the venue and contribute to a book of condolence to share memories of their loved one. The book will be open across the weekend.

This is the second time the event has taken place and was inspired by Mandy Jamieson whose son Danny was stabbed to death in Gateacre in July 2018. He was 16 years old.

Since the tragedy, Mandy has set up Danny’s Place – a charity which facilitates talks to schools, youth organisations and the probation sector about the ripple effect that knife crime can have.

Dr Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, said:

“So many young lives have been lost over the past year to violence, including knife and gun crime. 

“Life is precious. Life is a gift to us from God. Life is for living. This vigil will help us stand in solidarity with all who have suffered through the untimely death of loved ones due to violent crime. It will give us the chance to pledge ourselves and this city to work for peace.

“We, as a Cathedral, will continue to pray for peace in our city and throughout the world.”

Mother, Mandy Jamieson said:

“To lose a child to murder or manslaughter, as a result of either knife or gun crime, affects families traumatically.  I am so grateful to Mayor Joanne Anderson and the Culture Liverpool team for allowing us to remember our loved ones.  This event can really make a difference to bereaved families as it is also a celebration of our loved ones – and they really do deserve to be celebrated. Together, we can share memories and pay tribute to those we have lost far too soon, which is hugely important. and more importantly it shows them that they are not alone.” 

The vigil is supported by the Mayor of Liverpool, Joanne Anderson and the Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership. All are welcome.