As we witness
the atrocities in Iraq and Syria, and share the pain of those who are displaced
and have lost loved ones, we also remember those commemorating the first
anniversary of painful events that unfolded in Egypt over the coming days.
Whether considering communities and families who lost loved ones in the
pro-Morsi protests in the suburbs of Cairo, or the scores of Christian
communities whose churches and places of ministry throughout Egypt were
subsequently attacked, the continuing need for healing and reconciliation is
ever present.
These events
in Egypt are now an all-too-distant memory for many around the world, but for
those personally touched by them, there remains real pain. For most, this pain
is accompanied by a sense of immense loss, while for some who take a more
radical line, by anger and a need for violent retribution. This need drove
a small minority, a year ago, to retaliate against the scapegoated Christian
community of Egypt that chose the extraordinary path of non-retaliation despite
the unjustified and unprecedented level of attacks. Their restraint was, and
continues to be, a powerful witness that has provided a strong foundation for
peace and reconciliation.
Whether
addressing Egypt, Iraq, Syria, or the broader Middle East, peace, stability,
cohesion and reconciliation are traits of unified and unifying states, and can
not come about without the support of a proactive and intentional effort from
those who govern them.
With the
atrocities we are witnessing at the forefront of our minds, we continue to
advocate for those, regardless of race, religion or belief, who are suffering,
and pray God’s grace and strength upon them as they currently endure immense
challenges and persecution, and endeavour to move ahead from a place of
mourning and loss.
As the
situation facing Christians and minority groups in the Middle East increasingly
spirals to new and dangerous levels of exclusion and dehumanisation, the
need is intensified for both the unified Body of Christ within the Christian
family, and the global community as a whole, to stand in solidarity with those
suffering, condemn acts of brutality, and provide whatever assistance may be
needed, while at the same time, explore every possible means of healing, rebuilding
and restoring of communities and lives.
We continue
to hold those suffering great struggles, indignity and the loss of precious
human life in our prayers, that grace, healing and strength be bestowed upon
them all at this time.
