Statement on Iraq

Moderator visits Downing Street (19/02/03)

I was pleased, with other British colleagues, to accompany a delegation of American church leaders to meet the Prime Minister yesterday. Our common purpose was

to encourage him to continue to seek the resolution of the Iraq situation through the United Nations and if at all possible to avoid war
to continue to press for the removal of weapons of mass destruction
to consider the humanitarian needs of the people of Iraq
to initiate steps towards the re-opening of the Israel-Palestinian peace process through the publication of the "road map"

At the meeting, and in the discussions that preceded it, we were joined by the Anglican Bishop in Jerusalem and the Archbishop of Capetown. It was inspiring to witness a unanimity of purpose among Christian leaders at this critical time. Similar American delegations are in the process of making visits to other European capitals. The delegation told us with some sadness that their own Administration was not prepared to hear their views.

I believe we should pray for peace and international justice to be mediated through the United Nations, and we should pray for our Prime Minister in the pivotal role he can play at the moment.

The Revd John Waller,

Moderator of the United Reformed Church.

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