Statement from + Martin commending archbishops' statement in Holy Land
"I commend to you the statement of the archbishops of Canterbury and York [below], especially the call for restraint on all sides. It has been a terrible day in the Holy Land and my prayers join with yours for all caught up in the violence that erupted early on Saturday.
"Following our recent diocesan pilgrimage to the Holy Land, led by Archdeacon Edward, many in the Diocese will have vivid memories of the people and places of this land.
"Prayers will be said across the Diocese this weekend, and in the days ahead, for all who have died, those who are injured and remain in great danger. We pray also for a cessation of hostilities and, of course, for peace in the Holy
Land."
+ Martin
Statement of the archbishops of Canterbury and York on today's eruption of violence in the Holy Land:
“We are grieved and deeply concerned at the violence in Israel and Gaza, and we unequivocally condemn the attacks by Hamas. We pray for those who are mourning, those who are injured, and all those fearing for their safety. We pray for restraint on all sides, and renewed efforts towards a just peace for all. The way forward must be for both sides to build confidence in a secure future through which Israel and its people can live in security within its internationally recognised borders, and Palestinians have their own state and live in their lands in security, and with peace and justice.”