Churches are being invited to join our neighbours in the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle who are opposing plans for a new prison-style immigration camp.
The government wants to house women seeking asylum at a detention centre in Hassockfield, Consett.
The site has a troubled past and was the location of the notorious Medomsley Detention Centre in the 1970s and ‘80s.
Both the Anglican Bishop of Durham and the Catholic Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle have expressed concern and opposition.
The Hexham and Newcastle Justice and Peace Council wants faith communities to hold special services this Sunday (May 23) at 3pm.
A liturgy of the prayer service has been produced and placed on the Diocesan Website. Feel free to adapt – it is a beautiful and moving service. The link to the suggested prayer service is set out below.