Statement on Syria 2019

The leaders of three Churches, including the President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conference, have released a statement calling upon the UK Government to take urgent action to prevent an escalation of the conflict in Syria.

Following reports from our Church partners in Syria, we are extremely concerned about the impact on civilians of the assault on north-eastern Syria by Turkey.

The diverse people of the region were just beginning to see some respite from the turmoil and destruction that has overtaken them during the past 8 years of war. The region urgently needs a political settlement that guarantees a place for every citizen. The people of north-eastern Syria, both Muslim and Christian, need and desperately long for freedom and stability in order to live side by side in peace.

We appeal to the UK Government to take urgent and decisive political action to ensure that a further escalation of conflict is averted. We appeal for all parties to work for a sustainable peace based on agreements that guarantee respect for human rights and a complete rejection of violence.

Mr Derek Estill, Moderator of the General Assembly of the United Reformed Church
Revd Dr Barbara Glasson, President of the Conference of the Methodist Church
Prof. Clive Marsh, Vice-President of the Conference of the Methodist Church
Revd Tony Peck, General Secretary, European Baptist Federation
Revd Nigel Uden, Moderator of the General Assembly of the United Reformed Church

A prayer for Syria

Gracious God,

We weep with those in Syria,
crying out for those who have been killed,
for those who grieve loved ones,
for those who face the chaos and upheaval of losing homes and livelihoods,
for those who are injured, traumatised and violated,
for those whose futures have been stolen from them,
for those seeking power through violence.

Turn these cries of lament into calls for justice.
Convict our politicians, world leaders, and the international community to work together create a way of lasting peace.
Give strength and wisdom to religious and community leaders in the region who seek to build bridges across divided communities.
Challenge each of us to work for a world which enables freedom, respect and stability for all people.

In the name of Christ,

Amen