Statement on the situation in the Middle East from Global Relationships

We note and share in the grave concern expressed by the World Council of Churches to the widening hostilities across the Middle East and the dangerous escalation of violence which is fuelling a spiral of retaliation. We stand in solidarity with all communities facing fear, loss, and growing instability and call for a renewed commitment to dialogue grounded in the rule of law, with all parties striving for peace and justice.

We hold in prayer all communities across the region and especially our partners, the Middle East Council of Churches, remembering the longstanding Christian witness in the region to justice and meaningful dialogue. We also remember those within our own communities who are part of the Iranian diaspora, their family and friends who are living in the midst of this conflict, and all who – whether at work or on holiday – are currently caught in the region waiting for a safe way home.

We share in the words of the Revd Dr Leão Neto, General Secretary of the World Methodist Council, that “The way of Jesus is the way of peace. He calls us to follow peace and reject war. Jesus said: ‘blessed are the peacemakers.’” In that spirit we offer a prayer for Iran, written by a member of the Methodist Farsi-speaking community.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We believe that you are aware of the situation in Iran and its oppressed and defenceless people.
We pray that you would protect the people and not allow any bloodshed of the innocent.
We pray for peace, freedom and the war to end as soon as possible.
May your will as it is done in heaven be done in Iran and the Middle East. In the name of Jesus. Amen.