(New York, NY June 11, 2012)   The Israeli/Palestinian peace process is currently stalled as the parties appear to have reached an impasse.  The challenge for the mainline churches in the United States is to determine what  role we can  play in getting the parties past the impasse and back to the negotiating table, hopefully to reach a resolution that will end the occupation and achieve both peace and justice. 

According to Rev. Dr. Bruce Chilton,  Bernard Iddings Bell Professor of Religion at Bard College and Fair Witness Executive Committee member, “The idea of mainline churches committing themselves to investing in the task of nation building in Palestine as a serious peace making strategy is receiving increased  attention.” 

Sr. Ruth Lautt, O.P., Esq., Fair Witness Executive Director added that  “By itself, however, positive investment will not end the occupation or create Palestinian sovereignty or bring peace.  That can only be accomplished by a political solution achieved  by serious negotiations that lead to a final-status peace agreement which creates a legal border between Israel and Palestine and puts an end to all claims.”

“Our churches are at their best as peacemakers when we encourage a clear focus on negotiations that will resolve the core issues.  Coupled with that encouragement, positive investment is consistent with Gospel beliefs and can help produce movement  toward a time when the occupation is addressed by two strong parties who are each building toward a hopeful future,” concluded  Rev. Dr. Peter A. Pettit, Director of the Institute for Jewish-Christian Understanding at Muhlenberg College, and Fair Witness Executive Committee member.

Please visit the front page of our website to read our full statement.  www.christianfairwitness.com

Contact

Christians for Fair Witness on the Middle East
(212) 870-2320