European Bishops Call for Peace in Holy Land and Ukraine

The Council of Episcopal Conferences of Europe (CCEE) is hosting its annual meeting in La Valletta, Malta. The session, named “New steps for a Synodal Church in Europe,” commenced on November 27 and is set to conclude on November 30. This year, the assembly is focusing on the current conflicts in the Holy Land, Ukraine, and the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Developments in the Holy Land

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, joined the assembly through a video link to offer insights into the current situation in the Holy Land. He elaborated on the humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and the ongoing exchange of prisoners and hostages.

Advocating for Global Peace

Archbishop Gintaras Grušas of Vilnius, who presides over the CCEE, initiated the assembly with a keynote address. He echoed the sentiments of Pope Francis, highlighting that warfare signifies a loss for humanity. Archbishop Grušas emphasized the need for persistent prayers for peace and those affected by these conflicts.

Gaza Ceasefire Urged

Addressing the recent unrest, Archbishop Grušas strongly denounced the acts of terrorism by Hamas on October 7 and the reactive military measures taken by Israel. He advocated for an absolute ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, stressing the importance of maintaining humanitarian access and continuing prisoner and hostage exchanges.

Focusing on the Conflict in Ukraine

Shifting his focus to Ukraine, Archbishop Grušas voiced his concerns about the recent significant Russian drone strike on Kyiv, the largest since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. He underscored the efforts made by European Churches in providing assistance and pastoral care to Ukrainian refugees. The Archbishop called for a resolution in Ukraine that aligns with international law.

Addressing Broad Spectrum Issues

The Archbishop also delved into other critical matters, including life protection. He voiced concerns over recent developments like France’s motion to constitutionalize abortion rights and the Indi Gregory case in the UK, questioning the appropriateness of judicial authority in life-and-death decisions.

Focus on Synodal Process in Church Discussions

During the assembly, the primary focus will be on the synodal process spanning from 2021 to 2024. This will involve in-depth discussions about the latest developments shared by the Synod of Bishops in Rome, exploring how the Synod interacts with global organizations, and considering updates to the Charta Œcumenica. Key figures such as Cardinal Mario Grech, the Synod’s Secretary-General, and Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, the Principal Reporter of the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, will be leading these discussions.

The Plenary Assembly of the CCEE stands as a symbol of the commitment of European bishops to address pressing global issues. It underscores the vital role the Church plays in fostering peace, justice, and humanitarian aid amidst various international conflicts.