Statement by the Patriarchs and Heads of Local Churches of Jerusalem on the Recent Outbreak of Violence
Below you can find the statement issued by the Patriarchs and Heads of Local Churches of Jerusalem following the Recent Outbreak of Violence.
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, and security within your towers.” (Psalm 122:6–7)
Over the past two weeks, indiscriminate acts of violence have taken place in various parts of our Holy Land. These have in turn led to violent confrontations throughout the region. More than a dozen people have lost their lives as a result of these attacks and ensuing conflicts. Others have suffered serious injury.
We, the Patriarchs and Heads of Local Churches of Jerusalem, condemn and decry these and all acts of violence against every human person, and we offer our prayers and sympathies on behalf of the families and friends who grieve over the loss of their loved ones because of them. We also pray for the recovery of those who have been wounded as a result.
With this sudden increase in bloodshed, we share the widespread concern that tensions will continue to increase during the rare confluence of major religious festivals among the three Abrahamic faiths: Ramadan, Pesach, and Holy Week/Easter. We therefore call upon the faithful within each of these three traditions to show forth the mutual respect and care for one’s neighbor that is central to the teachings of each…
This statement was originally published on the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem website. Please click here to read the full text.