A Beacon of Hope: USPG on the Diocese of Jerusalem at General Synod
As part of February’s General Synod, USPG hosted a fringe event spotlighting the work of the Diocese of Jerusalem amid the ever-changing and challenging conflict in the Middle East. As the Church’s response in Gaza was not part of the official agenda for General Synod, the event offered an opportunity for people to gather, hear updates and pray for what is undoubtedly a dynamic and fragile situation.
The start of 2025 has already brought new complexities to an already tricky political landscape. Speaking via livestream, The Most Revd Hosam Naoum, Archbishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem shared:
We live in a place that is so unpredictable. It is impossible to imagine what might happen next. Even though the missiles have stopped, the anticipation and uncertainty remain.
Uncertainty is the prevailing theme for many on the ground. Jamie Eyre, CEO, Embrace the Middle East, highlighted that the daily reality for displaced Palestinians is harsh—many do not know where their next meal will come from, and countless individuals are suffering from the physical and psychological effects of war.
The Revd Canon Dr Duncan Dormor, General Secretary, USPG and The Revd Davidson Solanki, Senior Regional Manager for Asia and the Middle East, USPG both expressed that the Anglican witness in the region is nothing short of remarkable. Al-Ahli Hospital, run by the Diocese of Jerusalem, is one of the very few in the region that remains open. The staff work tirelessly against the odds to provide life-saving medical treatment. The hospital is not without its scars but stands strong as “a beacon of hope” added The Most Revd Hosam Naoum.
On behalf of the Diocese of Jerusalem, The Most Revd Hosam Naoum also expressed his deep gratitude to Anglican partners such as USPG for their solidarity, prayers, and ongoing support. He acknowledged their crucial role in keeping hospitals and clinics open and extended his thanks to bishops for their advocacy in the House of Lords.
We were honoured to be joined at the event by The Rt Revd Rachel Treweek, Bishop of Gloucester and The Rt Revd Guli Francis-Dehqani, Bishop of Chelmsford, who praised the front-line ministry of the Diocese of Jerusalem. In a context where advocacy can be quickly politicised in favour of one side or another, the Bishop of Gloucester emphasised that God’s equity, justice and mercy must encompass all sides. Echoing the Archbishop, she added that “everyone deserves to live in dignity, freedom and security.”
Looking ahead, the situation remains unpredictable. Yet God’s call to make a stand is clear. Jamie Eyre, Embrace the Middle East, concluded:
We must support where we can: listening, praying and speaking up for equity. Justice is the theme of God’s Kingdom and we are invited to play a role in advancing it.
The ceasefire (however fragile it might be) does not mean the challenges are over—there is still a long road ahead. The Diocese of Jerusalem continues its vital work, and your support remains essential.
Let us pray:
Gracious and loving God,
We commend to you the people of Palestine and Israel, and the whole Middle Eastern region. We pray for the Diocese of Jerusalem that continues to be a shining light. We give thanks for their work, ministry and witness. We pray for Archbishop Hosam, please continue to bless him, guide him and give him the wisdom and strength that he needs. We pray for all those working for peace and reconciliation. We commit ourselves once again to our ongoing support for those who need it most as we continue to pray for peace with justice and the dignity of all people. Make us people of peace in the lives we lead. We ask this in Jesus’ name.
Amen
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