Toward a Just Peace in Israel and Palestine
“Pax Christi International stands with the people who brazenly demand justice, all the more if they are caught up in an asymmetric conflict in so many ways. We recommit ourselves to supporting all forms of nonviolent resistance and plead that the international community, instead of blaming, recognise and lift-up the truth of each side’s transgressions and longings. Peace may be elusive; it might hide from view, yet we hold on to a solitary truth that if truly desired it is not impossible.”
Pax Christi International statement on the situation in Jerusalem, 2021
Advocating for a just peace in the Holy Land has been a priority of Pax Christi International since its founding. With a resolute commitment to nonviolence, we have forged strong bonds with partners in Palestine and Israel. We work collaboratively with other organisations to advocate for the dignity and equal rights of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Pax Christi International maintains a presence at the United Nations with representatives actively participating in working groups and engaging with other NGOs and UN offices and missions.
We have brought together peacemakers from across the world in Bethlehem resulting in guiding principles for seeking a sustainable and just peace in Israel and Palestine. The annual Holy Land Coordination trip, attended by an international delegation of bishops and others, has consistently included a representative of Pax Christi International.
Our working group addresses ways in which our movement can more effectively educate our communities and publicly address transgressions that undermine the principles of international law and violate the human dignity of individuals.
Pax Christi International has and will continue to be steadfast in its advocacy for justice as the only way to peace in the Holy Land.
Read our 2021 statements on the situation in Jerusalem and opposing Israel’s plans for annexation.
Pax Christi International opposes Israel’s plans for annexation
Pax Christi International vehemently opposes Israel’s plan to annex any area of the West Bank including the Jordan Valley. We recognise East Jerusalem and the Syrian Golan Heights as illegally annexed under international law.
To read more, click here.
Declaration of the Holy Land Coordination 2020
“We must not ignore the voice of people in the Holy Land“
Every year we come to encounter and hear the people of the Holy Land. We are inspired by their enduring resilience and faith in a worsening situation.
To read more click here
Resources, statement for World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel
The annual World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel is slated for 15-22 September this year. During this week — which includes the International Day of Prayer for Peace on 21 September — church organisations, congregations, and people of faith will be organising worship services, educational events, and acts of support in favour of peace and justice for Israelis and Palestinians…
Brussels – The annual World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel is slated for 15-22 September this year. During this week — which includes the International Day of Prayer for Peace on 21 September — church organisations, congregations, and people of faith will be organising worship services, educational events, and acts of support in favour of peace and justice for Israelis and Palestinians.
Today, Pax Christi International has released a statement in observance of the 2019 World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel. The statement addresses the week’s official theme, “Humanity and Equality in God’s Creation”. The statement begins:
“On the occasion of the 2019 World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel (15-22 September), sponsored by the World Council of Churches, Pax Christi International joins the call for all to acknowledge and defend humanity and equality in God’s creation. Fundamental to our faith, and that of our Jewish and Muslim brothers and sisters, is the core belief that all persons are created by God. As children of a gracious and loving Creator, our humanity and equality are unassailable. These principles, in the secular realm, form the basis of international law and are enshrined in the 1948 United Nations Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). They are the bedrock of a just, humane and free society…”
Read Pax Christi International’s statement for the World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel in its entirety at these links:
Additionally, throughout the week, use this infographic (pictured right) with a quote from Pax Christi International Co-Presidents Bishop Marc Stenger and Sr. Wamuyu Wachira on social media with the hashtag #WWPPI.
More resources at:
- Additional resources, events and actions by Pax Christi UK
- Resources from the World Council of Churches