Youngsters send out anti-guns message

Dec 1 2008 by Paula Owens, Liverpool Daily Post

Liam Moore leads the singing at St. Teresa's Church, on Sunday, as part of the Churches Stand United in Norris Green & Croxteth _320

MORE than 100 school children joined together in song yesterday at a special church service to spread an anti-gun message.

The choir, made up of children from schools in Norris Green and Croxteth, performed “You’re the Voice” at St Teresa’s Church in Norris Green, to a 150-strong congregation.

The service, which started at 3pm, was the last of 11 held at churches across Norris Green and Croxteth under the banner “Community Sunday”.

Residents of the two communities were invited to unite against the violence all too often associated with their areas.

The day of events was organised by Churches Stand United in Norris Green and Croxteth, which consists of Christians from the Roman Catholic, Church of England and Free Church faiths.

St Teresa’s Father Frank Gormley said: “This is a response to the Rhys Jones death among other things.

“We’re always hearing negative news. The community is now doing something positive for the area by praying together to help enrich community spirit.”

Rev Helen Edwards, who helped to organise the day, said: “There is much to celebrate in Norris Green and Croxteth.

“As I’ve watched the children rehearse You’re the Voice, I’ve seen the goodness in them, their desire and belief that as we stand together we can make a difference which will shape our communities to make a better and brighter future.”

She added: “Everyone who has attended has been really positive about it. We’re already planning another Community Sunday for next year.”

Local singer Liam Moore, who performed as Phil Collins on ITV show Stars in their Eyes, has been driving the “You’re the Voice” project, visiting schools in both parishes to work with pupils.