The United Reformed Church (URC) has joined with the Council of Christians and Jews (CCJ) to condemn antisemitic attacks.
They released a statement after a suspected arson attack on Finchley Reform Synagogue in North London on Wednesday - and before this weekend's arson attack on Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow. Standing in solidarity with the Jewish community, Rev Dr Kevin Snyman, the URC’s Head of World Justice and Inter Faith said members of the URC are "deeply saddened and angered by this latest act of antisemitic hatred” and "wish to hold close to our hearts our Jewish family", adding "no community should have to worship under threat, fear, and anxiety.”
Dr Snyman was endorsing a statement from the Council of Christians and Jews (CCJ), which noted that although this attack was unsuccessful, it followed attacks on community ambulances in Golders Green last month and Heaton Park synagogue in October.
The CCJ said: “Security, tension and anxiety are extremely high. Jewish colleagues, friends and neighbours should not have to worry about attending places of worship, nor should anyone of any faith. Jewish community buildings, schools and synagogues have longstanding security systems that frankly should not be required.”
Rev Dr Nathan Eddy, Co-Director of the CCJ and a United Reformed minister, added: “An attack on a synagogue or any place of worship is an attack on us all. It strikes right at the heart of something Christians should stand against, arm in arm.”
In a message directed to members of Finchley Reform Synagogue, Dr Snyman emphasised that “we send our strength, our prayers, and our steadfast support to the synagogue and to all who are shaken by this attack. You are not alone at this time.”
A man and woman have been released on bail in connection with the attack.
Following Saturday night's attack on Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow which caused smoke damage, Britain’s Chief Rabbi said a sustained campaign of violence against the Jewish community is gathering momentum.
Another suspected arson attack on a building in Hendon which was previously used by members of the Jewish community is also being investigated. Police say it's being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.
The Prime Minister this weekend said he is "appalled" by the recent attacks in London and the Metropolitan Police said it has increased its resources in the area.