His Eminence Cardinal Roger Etchegaray, Special Envoy
of His Holiness Pope John Paul II, arrives today in Jerusalem, for a visit
aiming to participate directly in solving the crisis in Bethlehem caused by the
Israeli Army siege around the Basilica of the Nativity, since 30 days ago.
Cardinal Etchegaray’s
visit comes in continuation to the active role of the Holy See in specific and
the world churches in general, especially the Churches of the Holy Land, which
act continuously in an attempt to put an end to this crisis, as well as to the
other issues in conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians.
Since the emerging of
the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, tens of years ago, and with every regretful
renewal of the conflict, the Churches expressed firm position highlighting that
there is no peace without justice, and no justice while there is oppressors and
oppressed.
It is good to add in
this opportunity that the churches in general, and the Holy See particularly
invest great efforts, on various levels, known and unknown. We emphasize also
that the Church cares for the Palestinian Cause in general, and for the current
conflict in specific, especially what happens in and around the Basilica of the
Nativity. Many ideas and proposals were offered, and more efforts will continue
to be done, hoping that Almighty God help us in solving this crisis and
improving the entire Arab-Jewish relations in the near future.
We pray that the
Almighty inspire all leaders, especially those who could decide, to know that
the military solutions are useless, but bring more disasters, destruction and
hatred (which will be difficult to eliminate it in the foreseen future). We call
upon our faithful and the entire residents of the Holy Land to continue praying
for justice and peace in our homeland.
His Eminence
Etcghegaray will preside a Pontiff Mass at the Con Cathedral of the Latin
Patriarchate in Jerusalem (near Jafa Gate), at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 5,
2002.
Jerusalem,
May 1st 2002