The Bishop of Southwark visited Jerusalem in January. On his return he called unflinchingly for an end to the illegal occupation of parts of the West Bank and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, saying: “It was humbling to listen to the great pain being felt in Jewish and Palestinian communities. No one I met professed easy solutions, but each showed a determination and commitment to taking whatever steps they can – however provisional – towards a future which allows for the human flourishing and security of both Palestinians and Israelis. Such individuals need our prayers and support.”
Speaking about the ongoing war, Bishop Christopher said: “The desperate and devastating cost of the war in Gaza was evident in every conversation – and it is abundantly clear that the heaviest price is being paid by the most vulnerable. I’m clear that continued military action will only intensify this humanitarian catastrophe and make the prospects for peace more distant. As a religious leader, I add my voice to those calling for the release of the hostages and prisoners, and an immediate ceasefire to end this appalling suffering.”
You can see photos of the Bishop’s visit and read more about it here.
At the other end of the spectrum, a grassroots movement of Christians equally concerned about the ongoing slaughter and starvation of Palestians in Gaza is growing fast. Christians for Palestine UK aims to bring Christians together to join peace marches and protests for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, and to raise awareness amongst Christians of the actions we can all take to support, with prayers, fundraising, and advocacy, movements towards a lasting peace in the Holy Land, and emergency humanitarian support.
We knew there are thousands of Christians in the UK who support long-term projects for peace and prosperity in Palestine and Israel, and many more who have been horrified by the bloodshed in the current war, and who want to speak up. But we were struck by the lack of a co-ordinated and visible Christian bloc at the national marches for Palestine. We want to show the strength of our solidarity and increase our visibility to encourage others to join us and to show those from other faiths and none that we are not looking away.
Working with and alongside many churches and organisations, including Sabeel Kairos, the Quakers, Pax Christi and others, we are organising and co-ordinating Christian individuals and groups to march together both on the national marches, and around the UK at local actions.
We are calling on our church leaders and government to use every means at their disposal to bring about a just peace for all people in the Holy Land.
You can follow Christians for Palestine on social media, or join the mailing list, to keep up to date with actions.
Join the mailing list: https://rb.gy/84jy7j
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555041637853
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christians_for_palestineuk/
“Seek peace and pursue it” – Psalm 34:14
Now read about the Russian Priest who is taking a stand for peace here
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