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On Oct. 14, the Patriarchate of Jerusalem issued a statement on recent Gaza ceasefire agreements. The statement expressed cautious hope alongside stalwart advocacy for expanded aid and peacemaking efforts.
“We, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem, rejoice at the recent enactment of the ceasefire in Gaza, and the successful release of captives,” the statement opened. “Our region as a whole has suffered long enough.”
The clergy thanked those who “worked to accomplish this major achievement,” including President of the U.S. Donald Trump.
However, the statement emphasized that Palestinian suffering continues nonetheless, as “hundreds of thousands [have] lost their homes, their health, their family members, and their livelihoods.”
As such, the clergy encouraged “a rapid surge of food, clean water, fuel, medical supplies, and temporary shelters into the Gaza Strip and other affected communities,” characterizing such efforts as a “prelude” to more expansive efforts to rebuild destroyed homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
> Previously: In Gaza City, clergy and nuns refuse to abandon displaced civilians.
The Patriarchate also advocated for an end to the occupation of both Gaza and the West Bank, “leading to the establishment of a Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace with the present state of Israel.” The statement asserted that only then will a “just and lasting peace” exist in the Holy Land and broader region.
Words of admiration were also offered to the Christians sheltering at the Orthodox Church of Saint Porphyrios, Holy Family Catholic Church, and Al-Ahli Anglican Hospital in Gaza. “Your perseverance in faith amidst the immeasurable hardships of the past two years has served as a shining example for us all,” the clergy said.
The statement concluded by advocating for solidarity among Christians globally. “The work of peacebuilding has only just begun,” the clergy emphasized. “May God grant us all the grace to rededicate ourselves to this vital task.”
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