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  11-25 On Becoming Non-Partisan Advocates for Peace. Source: Presbytery Sponsor: Santa Barbara Presbytery Committee: [11-25] Peacemaking and International Issues Type: General Assembly Full Consideration Topic: Unassigned http://www.pc-biz.org/Explorer.aspx?id=1919
RECOMMENDATION The Presbytery of Santa Barbara overtures the 218th General Assembly (2008) to 1. Be non-partisan as we seek peace and freedom from violence for those living in both Israel and Palestine. 2. Ask the General Assembly governing bodies, entities, networks, staff, members, and congregations to refrain from the self-righteous comfort of taking sides and rather to become non-partisan advocates for peace.
RATIONALE
At
its 416th Stated Meeting on May 3, 2008, the Presbytery of Santa
Barbara voted to overture the 218th General Assembly (2008) to be
non-partisan as we seek peace and freedom from violence for those
living in both Israel and Palestine. We ask PC(USA), our GA governing
bodies, entities, networks, staff, members, and congregations to
refrain from the self-righteous comfort of taking sides and rather to
become non-partisan advocates for peace. As such, we ask that our
church not be caught up in the propaganda whirlwind, which invites us
to take sides in the conflict between the Palestinians and their
supporters and Israel and their supporters. Instead, let us identify
with the voices for peace in the midst of horrific acts of violence and
terror. As followers of Jesus we will condemn all acts of violence
against innocent civilians. We will not take a stand that tries to
over-simplify a very complex situation into a convenient but false view
of reality where we accuse one side as clearly at fault and the other
side as clearly the victim. This overture invites a humble confession of our false starts
in the past and invites us to regain our historic role of
reconciliation. We wish that the PC(USA) might be involved in solving
the problems in the Middle East yet recognize our past statements have
hurt our friends rather than helped. We also realize our role in the
region needs to maintain a humble disposition. We will try to be part
of the voice for dialog and peace and refrain from giving false support
to one side over and against the other. We ask that the United States government take on an unflagging
role as a peacemaker, bringing together the opposing parties in forums
where reasonable people can reach reasonable compromises about highly
complex issues. We will support any and all others who seek a solution that creates two states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and justice. We ask that all who cling to narrow self-interests avoid statements or actions that stand in the way of such a solution.
COMMENT
COMMENT
Advice and Counsel on Item 11-25—From the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy.
Advice and Counsel on Item 11-25—From the Advocacy Committee for Racial Ethnic Concerns (ACREC).
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