Cyril Ashton confirms Emad al-Swealmeen’s faith, but says he “chose a different path”

The Church of England bishop who confirmed Emad al-Swealmeen into the Christian faith in 2017 expressed his shock and sadness following the Liverpool bombing attack. Cyril Ashton, assistant bishop of Liverpool, confirmed that al-Swealmeen was part of the community at Liverpool Cathedral at the time of his confirmation. However, Ashton clarified that he did not have a specific recollection of the individual, noting that he had conducted hundreds of confirmations during his tenure.

Ashton emphasized that the church takes confirmation seriously, ensuring candidates are well-prepared and understand the Christian faith. Despite this preparation, Ashton lamented that, tragically, al-Swealmeen had taken a different direction in life, culminating in the attack.