In a display of solidarity, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain, President of the Conference of European Churches (CEC), has written a letter to Dr Michael E. Abs, Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), offering prayers and reaffirming CEC’s support during the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
The Archbishop’s letter, based on the biblical verse “Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord!” Psalm 130, stresses the urgent need for peace and a call to action in response to the escalating violence in the region.
Archbishop Nikitas expressed deep concern, noting that the fears expressed in CEC’s previous letter to MECC have now become a harsh reality. He highlighted the devastation experienced by people in the Middle East who are grieving for the dead and injured, living in fear and terror, losing their homes, and being displaced, while the cycle of hatred and violence persists.
The CEC President acknowledged the significant challenges faced by churches in the region and reiterated CEC’s dedication to supporting Christian communities in the Middle East, stating, “We keep the Christian churches in the Middle East in our thoughts and prayers amidst all they are enduring.”
In alignment with the common desire for peace, Archbishop Nikitas endorsed the plea for an immediate ceasefire to enable dialogue, negotiation, and the safeguarding of innocent lives. He expressed hope for a transformation, the cessation of violence, and prayed for God’s peace to encompass the region.
The Archbishop assured Dr Abs and the churches in the Middle East that CEC stands in solidarity with them as they strive for peace and reconciliation in the region. “Rest assured that as we remember you, your churches, and the region during these times and lift them up in prayer, the words of the Psalm are echoed in our congregations.”
CEC continues to advocate for peaceful resolutions and an end to hostilities, standing united with all those working towards sustainable peace in the Middle East.
Source: ceceurope.org