A Message from Unitarian Minister, the Rev. Phil Waldron

16 Oct 2023

In these tumultuous times, our world witnesses unfolding events in Israel and Gaza that echo the haunting reverberations of history. The staggering loss of life within Israel, an event that harks back to some of humanity's darkest hours, brings a profound grief that an avalanche of words can hardly express.

As Israel takes measures to protect its citizens and ensure its future security, we are also acutely aware of the potential human cost of the ongoing military operations in Gaza. The dense population, urban landscapes, and the heartbreaking reality of hostages being taken further accentuates the complexity of this conflict.

Back at home in the UK, our communities feel the weight of global events. Tensions rise, passions flare, and we are reminded, now more than ever, of the importance of maintaining peace and harmony in our own neighbourhoods, while extending compassion and understanding to those affected in distant lands.

I'm deeply concerned about the potential escalation in the Middle East. As the spectre of a wider conflict looms, it's crucial for international bodies, leaders, and individuals alike to advocate for diplomatic solutions and to support those initiatives that seek peaceful resolutions to these crises.

My thoughts and prayers are with the innocent Israelis who have tragically lost their lives, the innocent Palestinians caught in the crossfire, and the hostages whose fates hang in the balance. May all involved find wisdom, strength, and compassion in their decisions and actions.

As we look to the horizon, filled with uncertainty, my earnest hope is for a durable peace — a peace that sees past borders and ideologies, cherishing the intrinsic worth and sanctity of every life. For our communities in the UK and for the wider world, let us work together to bridge divides, heal wounds, and ultimately "Break the cycle" of pain and retaliation.

With heartfelt compassion and hope,

A Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation

Eternal Light, protector of the fragile heart and witness to all history,

In the midst of violence, fear, and sorrow, we approach with heavy hearts, yearning for understanding and mercy. We grieve for every innocent life lost, both Israeli and Palestinian, every child terrorized, every family torn apart.

We mourn profoundly the shocking wave of violence that claimed so many innocent Israeli lives - men, women, children, and the most tender of infants. Our souls cry out at the thought of civilians taken hostage, their fate uncertain in these tragic times.

Equally, our thoughts and prayers go out to the innocent Palestinians of Gaza, who bear the brunt of conflict and upheaval. May they find solace amidst the chaos, hope amidst the ruins, and a haven amidst the tempest.

In these dire dark moments, guide us towards a flicker of hope. Inspire the leaders of the world to see past divisions and animosities, to the shared dreams, fears, and aspirations that make us all human.

May the leaders on both sides, and the international community, heed the call of compassion and justice, ensuring that decisions made safeguard the sanctity and dignity of every human life.

In our shared grief, may we find the strength to build bridges, to heal wounds, and to pave a path towards a brighter, more peaceful tomorrow. Let us unite in our shared humanity, breaking the cycle of hatred and violence, so that Palestinian and Israeli children inherit a legacy not of perpetual conflict, but of lasting peace and mutual respect.

Amen.