As Christians on the Side of Israel eV, Word of the Church Leadership: Solidarity with Israel published on November 29th by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria regarding the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7th, 2023.
The Synod succeeded in identifying and naming the responsibility for that horrific attack where it lies: solely with Hamas. Hamas are the perpetrators, Israel is the victim. Israel has the right to defend itself and has the full solidarity of the Bavarian Lutheran Church. Quite right!
The Synod simultaneously expresses sympathy for all victims, both Jewish and Palestinian, without, and this is important, equating the two or blurring the lines between cause (the Hamas attack) and effect (Israel's defensive actions). And it engages in self-criticism regarding antisemitic attitudes within its own ranks, without ignoring potential minefields elsewhere, for example in left-wing or Muslim circles. This is convincing.
Finally, the Synod emphatically expresses its dismay at the hostility towards Israel and hatred of Jews on German streets and takes a stand against it. This underscores essential positions—positions that are necessary, that must be defended and enforced. We thank the Bavarian Lutheran Church for this courageous and groundbreaking statement! May it have a far-reaching impact!
“Like apples of gold in silver bowls, so is a word spoken at the right time.” (Proverbs 25:11)
