OCA Chancery
Syosset, New York
April 4, 2002
OCA Chancery
Syosset, New York
The Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America has learned with great concern of the desecration of the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. We are especially saddened and distressed that the church which marks the birthplace of the Prince of Peace is being so violently attacked. We call upon all parties involved to respect the sanctity of the church, and to remove the conflict from its hallowed precincts immediately. We deplore the continuing bloodshed and violence which afflict the land hallowed by the life, death, and resurrection of Our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ and we call upon all persons involved to work together for a just and peaceful solution to the many problems which are the source of the conflicts.
Furthermore, we implore all persons of good will prayerfully to reflect upon the evil nature of the violent disturbances which plague the Holy Land and always to seek peace, the final solution to all human strife and discord.