WCC reiterates call for end to occupation, equal human rights for all in Holy Land

Al-Bustan neighbourhood in Silwan, East Jerusalem. Photo: EAPPI/WCC

Source: WCC

In a public statement focused on the Holy Land, the World Council of Churches central committee yesterday expressed "deep solidarity with the member churches and Christians of the region in their life and work, keeping the Christian faith and witness in the Holy Land alive and vibrant, as well as with all people in the region."

The governing body also urged "all member churches and ecumenical partners, members of Jewish and Muslim communities, and all people of good will, to support the member churches and Christian communities of the Holy Land as essential components of the diverse multi-religious and multicultural nature of society in the region, including the Christian presence in the region."

The central committee welcomed the WCC's continuing relationships with the International Jewish Committee on Interreligious Consultations and the World Jewish Congress, and the opportunities which they provide for dialogue on these issues.

The statement "the government and authorities of Israel to ensure equal human rights for all people living under their responsibility, and to ensure accountability for attacks and violations against Palestinians, against the holy places, churches, Christian communities, Muslims and other groups, and to ensure free access to places of worship and holy sites."

The central committee also appealed "to all members of the international community and all WCC member churches and ecumenical partners to stand up for international law and to speak out against the looming evictions in Masafer Yatta and other threatened displacements of Palestinian communities in the occupied territories."

The statement concludes by reiterating "the WCC's constant call for an end to the occupation, and for equal human rights for all in the region."