Vigil planned after Church of England Synod abandons Holy Land debate

Campaigners from all denominations are planning to hold a vigil at Church House, Westminster tomorrow, (Tuesday, 13 November) to protest at the Church of England's decision to abandon plans to debate Israel/Palestine. The Synod had scheduled a debate on the issue, but changed the agenda to examine 'the international situation' instead - the terms on the motion for the debate will not be settled until immediately before Synod starts. A spokeswoman for the Amos Trust, said: "This means that instead of looking at an issue crucial to the lives of millions of Palestinians and Israelis, centering on the part of the world where the church was born, and very relevant to the current situation, there will be a wide ranging debate on 'world-wide terrorism' which is likely to be ill prepared and inconclusive." She said the vigil would be "peaceful and dignified". Protesters will be gathering at the entrance to Church House, Great Smith Street, WC1 tomorrow from 1.30-4.30pm.