News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

Jerusalem attacks funeral.JPG
Reuters
Jerusalem attacks funeral.JPG
Reuters
World News

'Exploding, senseless cycle of violence': Church leaders in Jerusalem call for 'restraint'

by Sophie Drew

Church leaders in Jerusalem have released an open letter calling for “restraint” and “self-control” in a bid to end the “exploding, senseless cycle of violence in the Holy Land”.

They called the violence – which has resulted in the deaths of 32 Palestinians and seven Israelis – “self-perpetuating” and called for everyone to work together to defuse the tensions.

Earlier this week, Pope Francis urged Israelis and Palestinians to halt “the spiral of death”.  The comments came after a Palestinian gunman killed seven people and wounded three others in a synagogue shooting on the outskirts of Jerusalem.

Prior to the attack, Israeli war planes struck Gaza in overnight attacks, with Palestinians returning two rockets. The attacks are considered to be one of the worst days of violence the West Bank has seen in years.

Church leaders have warned that the violence will continue to escalate without robust action.

The open letter reads: “In the aftermath of this latest, tragic wave of violence, we pray for those killed and injured, and we ask that God stay close to their families and loved ones.

“We pray also for healing for the wounded, and that the Almighty would give strength and perseverance to those caring for them.

“Finally, we ask that God grant wisdom and prudence to political leaders and people of influence on all sides, leading them to devise ways to help us overcome violence, keep our communities safe, and work tirelessly to bring about a just and peaceful solution for our beloved Holy Land.”

 

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate