Archbishop of Canterbury meets with Bethlehem pastor

Jesus in the Rubble - Crib at Pastor Munther's church this Christmas - screenshot

The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has met with Pastor Munther Isaac from the Lutheran Evangelical Christmas Church in Bethlehem in the Occupied West Bank, Palestine.

Archbishop Welby announced on Twitter: "I was grateful to speak with my brother in Christ, the Rev Dr @MuntherIsaac earlier today. In listening to him, I continue to be deeply horrified by Israel's bombardment and siege of Gaza. I condemn the killing of Palestinian civilians, the destruction of homes and neighbourhoods, and pushing people to the brink of starvation - there is no moral justification for this.

I renew my call for an immediate ceasefire, for aid to reach all those in desperate need, and for the release of all hostages. I renew my commitment to stand in solidarity with our Palestinian Christian brothers and sisters, and with the people of Gaza. I continue to pray for all Palestinians caught up in this terrible violence, and for hostages and their families. I pray for a different path towards a just and lasting peace for all."

Pastor Isaac wrote on Twitter: "Today I had a meaningful and honest conversation with the Archbishop of Canterbury @JustinWelby. Our conversation focused on the horrific situation in Gaza and the urgent need for a ceasefire and for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. We also talked about the plight of Palestinian Christians and the struggles we face. I am grateful for the Archbishop's humility and I join my voice to his voice in calling for a ceasefire, and I urge all church leaders to pressure their governments to put an end to this genocide.