7/7 London bombing Marks 20 Years
- Admin
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
In a powerful tribute marking the 20th anniversary of the July 7, 2005 terrorist attacks in London, 52,000 white petals cascaded from the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral one for each life lost. The moving ceremony honored the memory of the 52 victims killed in coordinated bombings on the city’s transport network, the deadliest terrorist atrocity in British history.
The memorial service, held on Monday, was attended by bereaved families, survivors, emergency workers, faith leaders, and dignitaries including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.
Tears and Remembrance
Among those reading the names of the victims was Saba Edwards, daughter of Behnaz Mozakka, who died in the Piccadilly Line blast, and Thelma Stober, a survivor of the Aldgate bombing. As each name was read, the falling petals symbolized the fragility and preciousness of every life lost that day.
Four symbolic candles representing each attack site: Aldgate, Edgware Road, King’s Cross, and Tavistock Square were carried by emergency service representatives and placed at the altar.
Messages of Unity, Resilience, and Hope
The Very Reverend Andrew Tremlett, Dean of St Paul’s, opened the service by emphasizing the resilience of Londoners and the importance of standing together against hatred and violence. He praised the city’s enduring spirit, saying:
“We come to honour the memory of those who died, to stand alongside survivors, and to renew our shared commitment to peace, justice, and reconciliation.”
Readings highlighting the history of the four attack locations were delivered by survivors, emergency responders, and family members, including Ellie Patsalos, Tony Silvestro, Reverend Julie Nicholson, and George Psaradakis, the bus driver on the day of the attack.
In a heartfelt address, Graham Foulkes, who lost his son David Foulkes in the Edgware Road bombing, reflected:
“Though the bombs sought to destroy lives and fracture hope, the spirit of London its diversity, resilience, and humanity remains unbroken.”
Prayers, Faith, and Solidarity
Prayers were offered by individuals directly affected by the attacks, including Azuma Wundowa, Philip Duckworth, and members of the Metropolitan Police. A diverse group of faith leaders from Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Jewish, and Sikh communities delivered a joint statement affirming their unity in rejecting terror and standing for peace.
“We stand united in our determination to resist and overcome the evil of terrorism,” they declared.
The service concluded with a message of hope, resilience, and collective remembrance ensuring that while the scars of that day remain, they are met with an unwavering commitment to peace and unity.
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