Metropolitan Hilarion: The Russian Orthodox Church prays for peace in Jerusalem

For several weeks, another escalation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict has been going on in the land which is sacred for the representatives of the three world religions. E. Gracheva, anchor of The Church and the World program, asked the Chairman of the Moscow Patriarchate’s Department for External Church Relations Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk whether the Russian Orthodox Church sees a way out of this political impasse.

“If the decisions that have been made through the UN for a long time are implemented, then ultimately a stable Palestinian state will be created, adjacent to the state of Israel, which will be able to peacefully coexist with it.” – said Metropolitan Hilarion – “If, however, the unilateral support of one side or the other continues, then, unfortunately, an escalation of hostilities can be expected in the future”.

The sooner a political solution is found so that both Israelis and Palestinians can live on this land, the better it will be for both, the DECR chairman noted.

He stressed that the Russian Orthodox Church invariably calls for a peaceful settlement of conflicts and confrontations. “We are praying for peace in Jerusalem,” – said the hierarch.

He also mentioned that the Orthodox Church of Jerusalem is making great efforts to reconcile both sides of the now aggravated conflict.

“The Church is often said to be outside or above these kinds of conflicts. This means not taking one side or the other.” – concluded the Metropolitan – “ The Church is always with the people, with the suffering people. And whenever there is another outbreak of violence, the Church makes efforts to stop it as soon as possible, so that people would live in peace and harmony”.

DECR Communication service

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Metropolitan Hilarion: The Russian Orthodox Church prays for peace in Jerusalem

Patriarch

Department Chairman

Sermons

Patriarch

Department Chairman

Sermons