FCG statement on Israel-Palestine

18 October 2023

We are heart-broken by the escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine.

The horror of the attack on Jewish communities in Israel by the terrorists of Hamas is beyond words. The humanitarian crisis facing the people of Gaza is appalling. We are greatly concerned for the innocent civilians of Gaza suffering as a consequence of the evil acts of Hamas. We in the Free Churches Group join with others to urge the Israeli government to seek to protect innocent lives wherever possible. We plead that humanitarian assistance is provided to all who suffer.

In our own country, we call for resistance against all antisemitic attacks for the protection for all Jewish communities. We look for visible action by Christian communities to reach out to their neighbours as people of light, and hope, who are called to be peacemakers, resisting hatred and violence.

We encourage Christians to pray for peace and comfort for all.

You may find the following links to resources, prayers, and articles compiled by the Council of Christians and Jews helpful:

• A CCJ message from Georgina and Nathan can be found on the CCJ website here.
• A collection of statements and prayers gathered by CTBI can be found here.
• An article from CCJ Senior Programme Manager, Dr James Roberts can be found here.
• The Diocese of London statement which includes a prayer by the Archbishop, Hosam Naoum of Jerusalem can be found here.