Bishop calls for end to the violence engulfing Holy Land

Bishop Declan Lang

Source: CCN

Bishop Declan Lang, Chair of the Bishops' International Affairs department has repeated calls for an end to "the occupation, discrimination and human rights violations that propagate violent attacks on civilians, standing in the way of a stable and peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis."

In a statement, Bishop Lang who is also Chair of the Holy Land Coordination of bishops which - before the pandemic usually visits the Christian community in Israel and Palestine once a year, says:

'As people of peace, we pray for an end to the airstrikes, shooting, missile attacks, and communal violence engulfing the Holy Land.

Pope Francis reminds us that: "Every act of violence committed against a human being is a wound in humanity's flesh; every violent death diminishes us as people."

The local churches have clearly stated that peace requires justice. We echo their calls for an end to the occupation, discrimination and human rights violations that propagate violent attacks on civilians, standing in the way of a stable and peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis.

We reaffirm our commitment to the internationally recognised status of Jerusalem, the Status Quo of its holy sites, and the equal rights of Jews, Christians and Muslims in the city.

At this critical time let us also offer our support to those humanitarian organisations working tirelessly to save lives and alleviate suffering.'