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(Jerusalem) - “No more bloodshed! No more riots! No more terrorism! No more war! Let’s break instead the vicious circle of violence. May a lasting peace based on justice be established, may there be genuine reconciliation and recovery”. The Coordination of the US and EU Bishops in Support of the Holy Land quotes the last words Benedict XVI said in Tel Aviv on May 15th, before he went back home after his journey in Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian Territories. In the final statement published today in Jerusale, to mark the end of their X visit to the Holy Land, the prelates recall that the solution of two States, as wished for by the Pontiff, “does not seem to be close. Many express a desire for peace, but what is needed is a commitment to that justice that ensures peace. Solutions are well known to the leaders, but courage and political willingness are needed”. Among the threats against this solution, which, as the Pope recalled, provides for “Israel’s right to exist and enjoy peace and security within internationally-recognised boundaries and the Palestinian population’s right to have an independent, sovereign country, to live with dignity and to travel freely”, there are “violence, the demolitions of the houses, the problems with the visas, the expropriation of the land and other policies”. The document also emphasises “the lack of human contact between Israelis and Palestinians that jeopardises trust and dialogue”. In addition, the prelates urge “the full enforcement of the Fundamental Agreement and an easy release of visas for pastoral workers, so as to enable the Church to accomplish its mission”. A worsened situation “is not good either for the Israelis or for the Palestinians, and neither is it good for the region and for the world”, points out the Coordination, which insists on the commitment “to inform the Catholics scattered all over the world of what happens here”. “We appeal to the devotees of all the nations, that they may pray for the Mother Church and for a fair peace, for them to be informed of this situation and for them to come on a pilgrimage and witness the vibrant faith of the lively stones of the local Church. We urge you to support those who, in their public function, undertake brave initiatives for the fair solution of the conflict”. In the current situation – conclude the US and EU bishops –, it is difficult to be hopeful, but, as Christians, we were all born in Bethlehem and we all died and resurrected in Jerusalem. Despite the wounds of this land, love and hope are alive. Peace with justice are close at hand, but the political leaders and all the people of good will need to be brave to reach them”.

© SIr - jenuary 14 th, 2010