In Response to the Kairos Palestine Document

Statement from Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson in response to Kairos Palestine Document.

December 11, 2009

Today the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has received with somber, yet hopeful hearts this authentic word from our brothers and sisters in the Palestinian Christian community.  Their perspective on the current conflict between Israel and the Palestinians warrants our respect and attentiveness.

This appeal, from a broadly ecumenical group of theologians and church leaders, is directed above all to members of their own churches.  It is primarily a word of hope in a time of overwhelming pessimism in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a pessimism that could lead to despair.  These Christian leaders’ words seek to clearly communicate both the depth of their disillusionment with current political realities and the resoluteness of their faith in God.  We join with these Christians in expressing our hope that in this conflict and throughout the world, peace with justice may be realized.

Recalling earlier Kairos documents, we join these leaders in their search for signs of hope and positive responses in the midst of a dire and seemingly intractable situation.  Their hope, their affirmation of love for every person, and their nonviolent resistance to the occupation inspire us to continue to do what we can to stand with our companions and partners seeking a lasting and just peace for all in the region.

In this Advent season, as we wait for the fulfillment of God’s promised justice and peace, we join our Christian sisters and brothers in Palestine in this hope.

Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop