Statement on ceasefire and hostage release

We give thanks to God for the news that 50 Israeli hostages will be released and for a four day lull in fighting in Gaza.

We continue to pray for those who remain captives, their families and for all who have lost loved ones, livelihoods and homes in the violence and war we have witnessed since Oct 7th.

We call on world leaders to work tirelessly for the release of all hostages, a permanent ceasefire and to facilitate a peace process based on justice for Palestinians and Israelis that works towards a just and lasting peace in the Holy Land.