Open Table Warrington leaders mourn murdered trans teen
Brianna Ghey - Rest in Power poster by Fox Fisher
LAST SATURDAY, 16-year-old trans girl Brianna Ghey was found with stab wounds in a village park near Warrington, and sadly died. Two 15-year-olds have been charged with her murder.
This terrible event has had a huge impact on the trans community, as a series of vigils across UK cities honour her life and stand against violence towards trans people.
Our Open Table community leaders grieve for her loss and offer support to the town’s LGBTQIA+ community.
Pam Gold, founder of Open Table Warrington in 2015 said:
‘I was privileged to start the second Open Table community, a monthly communion service for LGBTQIA+ folk and allies. I reached out to Trans Warrington and went along to some of their meetings and welcomed them to ours. My prayers are for Brianna’s family, who must be devastated, the community in Warrington and for all the LGBTQIA+ folk who are feeling vulnerable at this time.’
Gail Yorke, an Elder at St John’s United Reformed Church Warrington, and leader of Open Table Warrington, said:
‘As a church, as part of the body of Christ, St. John's and Open Table cannot close our eyes or remain silent. This is yet another violent and premature death, of a young girl who was incredibly brave in living as her authentic true self. St. John's and Open Table condemn this act of violence and murder. We stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community and acknowledge the pain and hurt this has caused. If anyone who is struggling with what has happened needs support please get in touch.’
To contact Open Table Warrington and St John’s URC, visit their website or Facebook group.
To remember and honour the life of Brianna Ghey:
A candle lit vigil is to be held this Saturday 18th February at 4.30pm, Warrington Old Market Place, near Golden Square Shopping Centre.
Trans priest Revd Sarah Jones, a vicar in Cardiff, has written this vigil prayer for Brianna: