On Oct. 24, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and Archbishop Hosam Naoum issued a joint emergency appeal for the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem. Writing about the bombing of the Al Ahli hospital and the determination of the Diocese to continue caring for and serving others, Archbishop Naoum wrote:
“[My] sisters and brothers in Christ, I appeal to you to first of all to pray for our mission here, as well for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6). Secondly, advocate with your representatives for a just and lasting peace in the Holy Land, so that all who dwell within these lands can live in security.
Finally, if you are able, support our ministries in Gaza, Palestine and Israel, and throughout the Diocese of Jerusalem by contributing financially through one of our international partners.
Archbishop Welby began his part of the appeal by writing, “As war devastates the Holy Land, we ask where Christ is to be found amid the cries of His children.” Also urging those who are able to support the work of the Al Ahli hospital and contribute to the Gaza appeal, he added, “Please, continue to pray for those who mourn, those who are in pain, and those who are in fear, and for those who are caring for the injured and bereaved.”
St. John, Antrim — Deanery of the Southwest