A newly formed group, named 'Aotearoa Christians for Peace in Palestine' (ACPP) is calling on Christians in Aotearoa New Zealand to stand up against the war in Gaza and the West Bank by signing a statement calling for ceasefire, removal of Israeli Defence Force Troops from Palestinian Territories and free movement of humanitarian aid.
The Letter is addressed to the New Zealand Government and can be signed by individuals, churches or organisations.
Anglican member of 'Aotearoa Christians for Peace in Palestine' Etienne Wain said the group recognises Palestinian Christian observations that the global church has been largely silent regarding the crimes being committed daily against the people of Palestine and seeks to build a movement reversing this silence.
To date several clergy, lay leaders, ministry units and congregation members from within Te Hāhi Mihinare - the Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia have signed the letter.
Bishop Justin Duckworth was the first bishop to sign on, alongside churches and ministry units such as St Tom's Newtown, Matthew's Taita and Cannon's Creek in the Diocese of Wellington and Urban Vision communities of Mt Roskill in the Diocese of Auckland.
The major points The Letter advocates for are as follows:
– An immediate and sustained ceasefire, and withdrawal of Israeli forces from Palestinian territories, as well as the negotiation and return of civilian captives on both sides.
– An immediate end to the siege of Gaza and free movement of humanitarian aid - food, water, fuel and medical supplies.
– An end to the illegal military occupation, blockade, and ongoing confiscation of Palestinian land and homes, and to advocate for a lasting peace that recognises the rights of all peoples to self-determination and sovereignty.
– A commitment to assist in the rebuilding and ongoing support of health infrastructure in Gaza.
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