Statement from the Council of Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem
The Council recently visited Taybeh, the last remaining all-Christian town in the West Bank, to stand in solidarity with the local community after attacks from Israeli settlers against them.
“We ask for the prayers, attention, and action of the world, particularly that of Christians globally.” Patriarchs and Heads of Churches of Jerusalem.
On Monday, 7 July 2025, radical Israelis from nearby settlements set fire near Taybeh’s cemetery and the Church of Saint George, which dates back to the 5th century.
These actions are a direct and intentional threat to our local community first and foremost, but also to the historic and religious heritage of our ancestors and holy sites. In the face of such threats, the greatest act of bravery is to continue to call this your home. We stand with you, we support your resilience, and you have our prayers.
Local priests (Greek Orthodox, Latin, and Melkite Greek Catholic) have issued a plea for support in the face of these repeated, systematic attacks, now becoming more frequent.
The radicals have encroached upon grazing and agricultural land, attacked homes, lit fires and erected a large sign translated in English to “there is no future for you here”.
The Church has had a faithful presence in this region for nearly 2,000 years. The Council has rejected this message of exclusion and wish to reaffirm their commitment to living peacefully together in dignity and safety in the Holy Land, and calls for these radicals to be held accountable by the Israeli authorities.
Read the full Statement of the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem during the Solidarity Visit to Taybeh | lpg.org | News | 14 July 2025
Download: 14 July 2025 Statement of the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem during the Solidarity Visit to Taybeh | PDF
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