“To ask the hon. Member for Battersea, representing the Church Commissioners, what steps the Church is taking to support Palestinians living in Gaza and the West Bank.”
Asked by
Patricia Ferguson
Answering Minister
the hon. Member for Battersea, representing the Church Commissioners
Answer from Hansard
Marsha De Cordova
Despite the horrific and truly devastating situation in Palestine, Christian communities continue to be steadfast and resilient in the face of war and destruction. Last month, the Bishops of Chelmsford, Gloucester and Norwich made a joint visit, which highlighted the severe pressures facing Christian communities across the region. Sadly, attacks and intimidation continue, including the destruction of farms and olive groves, and the Israel Defence Forces and settler militias shamefully attempted to obstruct pastoral visits by the Archbishop of York to Christian families on the west bank during his last visit. We know that despite all these atrocities, it is so important that we continue long-term engagement and supportive visits to the region.