The Bishop in Cyprus & the Gulf has called for “peace, wise diplomacy” and a de-escalation of what he described as a “catastrophic conflict” in a message to churches and communities affected by war across the Middle East.
In a filmed message shared on the Diocese’s Facebook account, Rt Rev Sean Semple highlighted the profound impact of the fighting on civilians in the region and urged prayers, especially in the current weeks when half of the world is observing either Lent or Ramadan.
The situation in the region has intensified in recent days. Israel says Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmail Khatib, was killed in an overnight strike on Wednesday, following the death of Iran’s top security official, Ali Larijani, the previous day. Iran has not yet commented. Meanwhile, Israel has carried out strikes on Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, including a blast that flattened a building in the city centre, outside Hezbollah’s southern stronghold.
Retaliatory attacks by Iran and allied militias continue across the region. Two people were killed in Tel Aviv, and blasts and drone interceptions have been reported in Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia.
However, despite the danger, churches across Bishop Sean’s diocese are continuing to support their communities.
"Our churches on the front line of this conflict are finding ways of adapting to the danger and uncertainty of the situation they find themselves in," he said. "By God’s grace, the creative, courageous work of our clergy and parish leadership have ensured that all the churches of the diocese continue to minister to their people and indeed anyone in need at this time."
He concluded: "In a world desperate for peace, we lift unceasing prayers that the gift of peace will take root in every heart. We offer whatever we have, out voices, our compassion, our time and energy, to uphold and comfort one another and to stand beside those in need.
"We pray that our lives may be a witness to the resurrection hope in Christ and that we may be found amongst the faithful peacemakers of these lands."