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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
David Crary,Peter Smith and Tiffany Stanley

Fear and vigilance rise as attacks on houses of worship intensify across the world

PicYoung Jewish men attend a vigil for the victims of the attack on at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue, in Crumpsall, Manchester, England, Friday, Oct. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Ian Hodgson) - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Every week, hundreds of millions worldwide gather for peaceful worship, yet this fundamental right to sanctuary is increasingly being shattered by deadly violence. Recent incidents, including an attack on a synagogue in England and two churches in the United States, echo a disturbing pattern seen previously at mosques in New Zealand, a synagogue in Pennsylvania, and a Sikh temple in Wisconsin.

Such acts inevitably fuel heightened anxiety and fear among religious leaders and their congregations worldwide. Despite bolstered security measures and increased vigilance among worshippers, a profound question persists: can faith communities truly find peace and safety when gathering to worship?

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