"MEETING PALESTINIAN PRESIDENT: WCC SECRETARY GENERAL URGES END TO ENDLESS CYCLE OF VIOLENCE"
On February 19, Reverend Prof. Dr. Jerry Pillay, Secretary General of the World Council of Churches (WCC), held a meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah, West Bank. Pillay urged an end to the "seemingly endless cycle of violence and suffering."
President Abbas praised the efforts of the World Council of Churches (WCC) to help the Palestinian people gain freedom and independence, stressing how important it is to tell the world about their suffering.
The president briefed the delegation on the latest developments in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Gaza, and the West Bank, including Jerusalem, and stressed the importance of an immediate ceasefire.
He also stressed how important it is to force Israel to stop attacking Islamic and Christian properties and shrines in East Jerusalem and the West Bank.
The secretary-general recognizes the unique role and responsibility of the WCC to listen to and strengthen the testimonies and voices of member and partner churches in the Holy Land, at least at this time. He also affirmed the WCC's continued commitment to work for a just peace for all.
WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay meets with Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas.
Pillay stressed that international partners and political authorities must work together to make strategic interventions to stop and prevent what is happening in Gaza today. He stated, " It is clear that collaboration is needed in efforts to end the war in Gaza, provide humanitarian support for all those affected, guarantee freedom of religion, and encourage the need for dialogue to create a safe and secure future for both Israelis and Palestinians."
Pillay also discussed the role and responsibility of political leaders in safeguarding the dignity of every person and respecting international law. President Abbas expressed his government's readiness to participate in the negotiation process with the Israeli government in an effort to realize a secure and stable future for all parties.
Pillay stated, " As a worldwide fellowship of churches, we will continue to accompany the people of Palestine and Israel on their journey with prayer, action, and hope for a better future."
WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay meets with Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas. Photo: ,
In addition, the WCC delegation met with the leadership of the Palestinian Presidential Committee for church affairs in Ramallah. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the role of Christians in the region and the importance of maintaining the Status Quo with Jerusalem as a city of three religions.
Meeting with the leadership of the Palestinian Presidential Committee on Church Affairs. Photo: WCC
The Secretary General of the WCC, Rev. Prof. Dr. Jerry Pillay, accompanied by Dr. Audeh Quawas, a member of the committee, paid a visit to Israel and Palestine from February 16 to February 22. During his visit, he will discuss the lives and ministries of WCC member churches in both countries as well as meet with various religious, social, and political leaders, including Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
What's Your Reaction?
