From Roots & Shoots CofE Devon Community News
On Monday the Bishop of Exeter responded to the start of the ceasefire in Gaza by saying “Thank God for the peace deal today leading to the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners and hopefully an end to the war in Gaza which has seen so much death and suffering. I pray that this fragile moment of peace might open up into something strong and robust, a foundation for hope and healing for the future.
At the same time a group of Church of England bishops with longstanding ties to the Holy Land welcomed the Gaza ceasefire, expressing hope that it will bring “immediate relief and comfort” to those affected by the conflict.
The Rt Rev Christopher Chessun, Bishop of Southwark and the Church’s lead bishop for the Middle East, joined by the Bishops of Chelmsford, Gloucester, and Norwich, called for a profound change in attitudes and actions to secure lasting peace in the region.
“What has unfolded in Israel and Gaza must never be allowed to happen again – anywhere,” they said, reaffirming their solidarity with the Churches of the Holy Land.
“We pray that this agreement will bring swift relief to those imprisoned or held hostage, to the hungry and homeless, and to all living in fear for their lives and the lives of their loved ones. After two years of unimaginable suffering, now is the time for all parties to turn from war and pursue peace.”
“A just peace must provide for a secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. We will continue to stand with the Churches of the Holy Land, ensuring that the voices of their communities — their hopes and fears — are heard in the months ahead.”
Read more on the Church of England website
