Dean of Guernsey writes to church leaders about Gaza
The Dean of Guernsey wrote to the Bailiwick’s church leaders prior to Saturday’s demonstration with his reflections on the situation in Gaza.
‘None of us can be unmoved by the appalling conflict in the Middle East, affecting the Christian, Jewish and Muslim communities in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank,’ said the Very Rev. Tim Barker.
‘We will be mindful of the corrosive dangers of both Islamophobia and anti-semitism.
‘We will also be deeply concerned for the small Christian communities in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank.
‘We will also be aware of the complicated history of the region, with disputes over the division and ownership of land, both in the 20th century and stretching back to Biblical times. And we will wonder how best to respond.’
Writing before the event he said that while some may have chosen to attend the gathering in St Peter Port, others, perhaps in solidarity with the Jewish community in Guernsey, may not have wished to be associated with an event that may not have recognised the huge and devastating impact of the Hamas attack on 7 October on Israeli families.
He included in his message a paper from the Churches Together in Britain and Ireland’s inter-faith theological advisory group on the subject, which highlighted the need to create ‘brave spaces’ to have important conversations.
‘We are aware that we are entering the season of advent, when, under the lights anticipating Christmas, we look for the coming of the Prince of Peace.
‘Above all, we will pray for peace in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank – as well as for peace in Ukraine and the many other troubled places of the world.’
