Two resolutions adopted by the recent Waldensian Methodist synod ask for an end to the ongoing tragedy in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank as well as an end to what the resolutions described as the illegal occupation of the Palestinian Territories. The resolutions supported those in Israel who are committed to building peace and supported boycotts of “armed banks” and Israeli products. They also condemned the distortions of the biblical text that are basis for “Christian Zionism.”
The resolutions also directed the Waldensian Tavola (the executive board of the Union of Waldensian and Methodist Churches) to urge the Italian government to recognize the State of Palestine as well as to halt the sale of weapons to the Israeli government that it can use to implement its genocidal war in Gaza. Moreover, the resolutions affirmed international law and the institutions responsible for its enforcement and promoted the opening of humanitarian and health corridors from Gaza to the outside world and asked for the designation of contributions from the Waldensian Church’s otto per mille funds.
These resolutions were the subject of a lively discussion, lasting through two working sessions. During the discussion, one participant described the resolutions as “strong because the situation, the ongoing drama in Gaza, requires it.” The two resolutions were approved by large majorities at the recent meeting of the Synod of the Waldensian and Methodist Churches.
The recently adopted resolutions called for the simultaneous release of Israeli and Palestinian hostages. They also denounced all forms of apartheid ideology, expressed solidarity with the Christian communities in Palestine, and supported peacemaking efforts.
The World Council of Churches and the World Communion of Reformed Churches have previously adopted similar resolutions.
The debate at the Waldensian synod was wide ranging as well as quite specific at various points. It was frequently punctuated by expressions of pain and indignation. In the end, it was an expression to global society of the Synod’s solidarity and sympathy for a people at risk of extermination.
This report was written by Claudio Geymonat and was first published by Riforma, the online Italian Protestant news magazine. The original article can be found here.