Scotland's Church leaders have issued a joint statement on Gaza, calling on the recognition of the State of Palestine by the United Kingdom Government:

"We unite to ask for the immediate cessation of violence and the relief of the suffering of the people in Gaza, and echo the words of Pope Leo in calling for 'a ceasefire, for the release of the hostages, for a negotiated diplomatic solution, and for full respect for international humanitarian law.'

"In reaffirming the "inviolable dignity" of each person made in the image of God, he reaffirms that understanding which we hold in common and speaks of a dignity that deserves to be "respected and protected". We are deeply conscious of the extent to which that human dignity has been violated and that both young and old, strong and vulnerable, are all alike exposed to the threat of death and destruction.

"In the light of this, we call for the release of the hostages taken on 7 October 2023 and an immediate ceasefire for the sake of all.

"Further, we call for all parties to unite in the provision of humanitarian aid and, while recognising the extreme difficulties faced by all agencies in this regard, we ask that, as a matter of urgency, an accord be reached which would enable such provision to be made.

"We are especially conscious of the perilous situation faced by the Christian church in Gaza, and we pray for those who in their suffering continue to bear witness to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

"We urge the United Kingdom Government to recognise the State of Palestine and call upon the Government to now fulfil its stated intention to do so, and thereafter to join the international community in seeking to establish a viable State within Gaza and the West Bank.

"We recall that the Vatican recognised the State of Palestine in May 2015 and we join with all those who affirm the right of self-determination by the Palestinian people.

Signatories
Bishop John Keenan, President, Catholic Bishops' Conference of Scotland
Rt Rev Rosie Frew, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland

Meanwhile Archbishop Nolan has joined the Moderator in asking everyone to pray for peace this Sunday 21 September as Churches around the world remember all those who are suffering amid the horrors of armed conflict.

Prayer for the Holy Land

Gracious Father, whose blessed Son Jesus Christ came down from heaven to be the true bread which gives life to the world: In your mercy, provide for all those in Gaza and beyond who suffer from hunger and starvation, that they may be given both physical bread to nourish their bodies and heavenly bread to sustain their souls.

By the power of your Spirit, bring a speedy end to this cruel war, the release of all captives, care for the sick and wounded, comfort for those who have lost loved-ones, and the opening of a pathway for a just and lasting peace here in the very homeland where your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, ministered during his earthly life; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen.