The Council of Christians and Jews (CCJ) are calling for reflection on this day to be sensitive towards interfaith relations here in the UK.
The one-year anniversary of October 7th will be a painful occasion as the Hamas terror attack is remembered, as hostages remain in captivity, and as suffering continues for all those caught up in the ongoing conflict.
Since October 7th, CCJ has been deeply concerned about the impact of the conflict on UK interfaith relations. Antisemitism remains at an all-time high, and interfaith relations are deeply strained. Many communities are divided and instances of hate crimes are all too common – the riots of this summer and the increase in anti-Muslim hatred compound this concern.
There is an urgent need to build positive interfaith relations in the UK. Therefore, CCJ encourages reflection on October 7th which promotes community cohesion, rather than stoking further division.
Where possible, we encourage reflection on October 7th rather than comment, to reflect the painful and sombre nature of this anniversary. However, to assist comment when it is being made, we have developed a toolkit for reflection on Israel-Palestine that is primarily aimed at Christian communities which can be accessed here.
Practically, there are several things we can do as the anniversary of October 7th approaches. We can:
* Be conscious of the painful nature of this anniversary for many.
* Reach out to Jewish friends and colleagues, offering our friendship and support.
* Be aware of any pastoral needs within the communities we serve which may emerge on this anniversary (particularly if you are a chaplain or have an interfaith duty of care)
* Encourage reflection, and caution comment which may further division (noting the reasons above).
* Remain committed to combatting antisemitism and all forms of hatred. If you witness any antisemitism report it to CST (similarly report Islamophobia to Tell Mama).
Read an article by The Bishop of Norwich
The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher travelled to Israel and Gaza just over a year ago, before the attack by Hammas. You can read his reflections here: The Bishop of Norwich reflects on the Middle East horrors, one year on from his visit to Israel and Gaza – Diocese of Norwich
Prayer for 7 October (Liturgical Commission)
Almighty God,
from whom all thoughts of truth and peace proceed:
kindle, we pray, in the hearts of all, the true love of peace
and guide with your pure and peaceable wisdom
those who take counsel for the nations of the earth
that in tranquillity your kingdom may go forward,
till the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.