Statement originally posted by the Episcopal Church Office of Public Affairs.
Just two weeks ago at General Convention, we welcomed Archbishop Hosam Naoum of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and heard him speak passionately about peace and the life-saving work of the Al-Ahli Anglican Hospital in Gaza. Today I am deeply troubled to learn that the Israeli Defense Forces closed this hospital.
We stand in solidarity with our Anglican family, including the Archbishop of Canterbury, against the closure and evacuation of this vital diocesan health ministry. This action violates the dignity of already-vulnerable people and is against international humanitarian law.
Let us pray particularly for the safety of the hospital’s patients and staff—and those who had been sheltering at the hospital who are now displaced again.
As a church, we again call for a ceasefire, for humanitarian aid to flow freely to all in need, and we pray for an immediate end to violence against civilian populations.
I also want to encourage Episcopalians to join the Episcopal Public Policy Network to receive updates and action alerts so you may advocate effectively to your elected representatives.
And as the prophet Micah said, may God give all of us the will and the courage to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.
The Most Rev. Michael B. Curry
Presiding Bishop and Primate
The Episcopal Church