The Rev Stephen Coles, ‘an inspiring person’

• I WAS moved and inspired by your article about vicar Stephen Coles’ compassion for Abu Hamza, (‘Wrong to demonise vulnerable Abu Hamza,’ says Finsbury Park vicar, February 8).

I got to know Stephen several years ago as a fellow trustee, working with young people at Elizabeth House play and youth community centre. He became a role model to me with his calm and sensible approach in his work for the community.

Later, I got to hear one of his sermons when I attended St Thomas Church for a funeral service of a parent of a close friend. His universal message of the meaning of life and love moved me to tears.

I remarked to him then that, but for the fact that I’m Jewish, I would be coming to all his services, so moved and inspired was I by his words and delivery.

Reading the Tribune article has shown me, yet again, what a genuine, humanitarian, kind and inspiring person Stephen is. His message of kindness and care, not only for our friends and family, but to strangers and our enemies is a truly inspiring.

RONIT DASSA
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