Statement
Communique from the Coordination of Episcopal Conferences in Support of Church in the Holy Land
Statement from the Coordination of Episcopal Conferences in Support of Church in the Holy Land, January 12, 2012, co-signed by Bishop Gerald Kicanas, Bishop of the Diocese of Tucson.
The Bishops of the Holy Land Coordination reaffirm their solidarity with the local Christian community and express concern over the ongoing occupation, insecurity, and lack of leadership affecting all people in the region. They emphasize that being pro-Israeli must also mean being pro-Palestinian, advocating justice for all as the path to lasting peace. They call for renewed dialogue between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, echoing Pope Benedict’s hope for secure, sovereign states. Extremism and intolerance threaten this dialogue, and the bishops urge courageous, humble leadership to foster coexistence. Despite challenges, they find hope in interfaith cooperation, humanitarian efforts, and the enduring witness of Christian communities. They also acknowledge progress in Israel–Holy See negotiations and call on global leaders to support peace through openness and mutual respect.