AMRI statement on Holy Land conflict/war
“Pursue peace with all…” Hebrews 12:14
The Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland (AMRI), like people around the world, are horrified at the escalating loss of life and devastation to critical infrastructure in the ongoing conflict situation in Israel and Gaza. We join others at this time in calling for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of a humanitarian corridor to enable critical aid and supplies into the area.
We are numbed by the escalating loss of life and pray for the thousands of lives already lost in the conflict and for those injured and the bereaved. We appeal for justice, and mercy in ensuring access to basic human needs such as water, food, shelter, and the necessary medical assistance. We call on all to work towards a dialogue focused on justice, compassion, and human dignity for all.
After many decades of violence and unnecessary bloodshed in the region, it is time to seek a renewed path towards lasting peace. We join the international community in calling for an end to the violence and for serious negotiations towards lasting peace in the region. Pope Francis reminds us in Fratelli Tutti (2020:225) that there is, “a need for paths of peace to heal open wounds. There is also a need for peacemakers, men and women prepared to work boldly and creatively to initiate processes of healing and renewed encounter.”
We call for special prayers of intercession in our local communities and we stand in solidarity with all Christians and people of all faiths in positions of leadership, including the His Holiness Pope Francis and the World Council of Churches, and fully support peacemakers, such as Latin Cardinal Patriarch of Jerusalem in their calls for peacebuilding, freedom, and justice for all humanity.
Ends.
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Gerard Gallagher, 0872347220 communications@amri.ie / www.amri.ie
