Thread by @RedRector

I have just (22.05 - 22.15) been on the receiving end of some vile anti-semitic abuse on Deptford High Street, whilst speaking with a parishioner quite near to my church, S. Paul's Church #Deptford.

Thread

A middle aged man cycled by, shouted abuse at me, 'Look at that Jew ... mother*****r', and something else indeterminate. He obviously thought I was an Orthodox Jew, and/or a Rabbi.

Then a few minutes later he came back, in the company of two other men, and I thought they were going to attack me. I challenged his antisemitism, loudly, the street was full of people, but noone stopped to ask if I needed any help, whilst he continued to say, 'Jew F**k Off'.

I continued to challenge and call out his racism and antisemitism, ever loudly ... people just walked by.
I was wearing cassock, cloak and Capello Romano.
I am grateful to my female parishioner, L, who witnessed the disturbing event.
What troubling times we live in.

Solidarity to all people who have been on the receiving end of racism, antisemitism, and islamophobia today, and every day.

I reported the antisemitic incident to the Met Police, via 101, and this was swiftly dealt with by Lewisham Police, who sent out two officers who've just been to talk with me and take a statement of the incident. A reassuring end to a troubling incident. Grateful to the Officers.

I feel upset and shocked by last night’s events, but also strengthened by the messages of solidarity, & the promise of prayers, which I’ve received. Thankyou. Mass offered for all who have experience of antisemitic or islamophobic abuse, and for all who strive for hope not hate.

I took Geza Vermes’s book, ‘Jesus the Jew’, to the altar this morning for the 9.30am Mass, and for the intention against antisemitism and all kinds of evil. Prayers and solidarity to all who seek the common good.