The Acts of Convention

Resolved, That the 79th General Convention strongly reaffirm its long-established position calling for the holy city of Jerusalem to be the shared capital of both the State of Israel and of a potential Palestinian state; at the same time recognizing that this hoped-for two state solution is currently in serious jeopardy and may not become a reality; and be it further

Resolved, That this General Convention assert its conviction that Jerusalem is a holy city to the three Abrahamic faiths, where full respect must be accorded to the civil rights and religious interests of all persons; that all holy places in the city must be equally protected and accessible to all adherents; and that the city’s status as a community for all Christians, Muslims, and Jews must be honored; and be it further

Resolved, That this Convention concur with our Presiding Bishop, who said in his March 29, 2018, reflections on his trip to the Holy Land, “As we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, as the Bible teaches us, we must find ways to work for the peace of Jerusalem, which will be found where there is true equality for all, true justice for all and true freedom for everyone. Here it is clear that this is not simply an idealistic dream. It is the only hope, and we must not rest until it is realized;” and be it further

Resolved, That the Convention join with leaders of the Christian communities in Jerusalem in recognizing that the relocation of the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem at this time creates an additional obstacle to peace; and be it further

Resolved, That all dioceses be encouraged to engage earnestly in education, advocacy, and prayer for the renewal of a diplomatic and political process for peace in the region, and for the peace of Jerusalem; and be it further

Resolved, That the General Convention urge the House of Bishops to disseminate as soon as is practicable a Pastoral Letter supporting Jerusalem’s prophetic identity as the Holy City of Peace.