Statement from the Revd Lynn Green, concerning the ceasefire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages

I welcome the news of the ceasefire in Gaza and pray that it will bring much-needed relief and the flow of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza. They have suffered so deeply through two years of devastation, loss, and displacement.
 
I also welcome the release of Israeli hostages yesterday. I give thanks that those who have endured such unimaginable suffering, fear, and separation are now being reunited with loved ones.

This moment offers a fragile but precious glimpse of hope amid so much pain. It calls us to remember our shared humanity and God’s longing for reconciliation and peace. As was affirmed in the Baptist Union’s Core Leadership Team Statement in July, true peace can only grow where justice and human dignity are upheld. May this ceasefire open space for that deeper work to begin – that the suffering of so many might not continue, and that the seeds of healing and renewal might take root.

I urge all Baptists, and all who would seek peace in the Holy Land, to be encouraged and spurred on by these recent signs of hope, and to refuse to give up on the vision of a future where Israelis and Palestinians alike can live in security, dignity, and freedom. 
 
This ceasefire and the release of hostages are, of course, only the first steps on a long journey toward a just and lasting peace. We must continue to pray and work for the rebuilding of shattered communities, for an end to cycles of violence and hatred, for accountability and truth, and for the courage of leaders and citizens alike to choose the hard path of reconciliation.
 
We continue to pray for all who grieve and for those whose trauma and loss will endure long after this ceasefire. We pray for wisdom, courage, and compassion for political leaders, and all engaged in the difficult work of peacebuilding. And we pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ – in Israel, in Gaza, in the West Bank, and across the world – that together we may be faithful witnesses to the God who makes peace and calls us to do the same.
 

14/10/25

 

A prayer

God of peace and compassion,
We thank you for every life preserved, every family reunited,
and every moment of respite from fear.
We pray for healing where there is deep hurt, for comfort where there is loss,
and for justice where people long to live in safety and peace.
Strengthen those who work for peace — in governments,
in communities, and within their own hearts.
May your Spirit of mercy move among all peoples of the Holy Land,
bringing reconciliation where there is division,
and hope where despair still lingers.
In the name of Christ, the Prince of Peace.
Amen.
 

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