Israeli police inspect the scene of the shooting that took place in Hadera, Israel, on March 27, 2022 Photo: AP Photo/Ariel Schalit
The United Church of Canada condemns the recent spate of attacks on Israeli communities by violent extremists, including three in a single week.
« The United Church expresses its sincere condolences to the families and communities of the victims, who are grieving their loved ones after these deadly attacks, » said the Rev. Richard Bott, moderator of the United Church of Canada. We unequivocally condemn this violence. We pray that the perpetrators of these acts will be held accountable and that these attacks will not lead to a further escalation of violence. »
The moderator’s statement echoes the reaction of the World Council of Churches, which expressed solidarity and condolences to all those whose loved ones were killed or injured in the attack. The United Church of Canada’s Mission & Service partners work tirelessly, often under difficult conditions, to bring about a just and lasting peace in the Holy Land. The United Church reaffirms its strong commitment to support the efforts of Palestinian and Israeli partners to end violence and extremism.
In this Lenten season, communities of faith are invited to redouble their prayers and efforts for a just and lasting peace for the peoples of the Holy Land.