December 24, 2003

To the Christian Faithful Worshipping in Jerusalem and Bethlehem this Christmas:

c/o The Rt Revd Riah Hanna Abu El-Assal
The Anglican Bishop in Jerusalem
St George's Close
Box 19122
JERUSALEM

Dear Friends,

Tonight as you worship in Jerusalem and Bethlehem on the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord, be assured that 75 million Anglicans/Episcopalians from around the world will be praying for you and with you and indeed for all the faithful in the Holy Land. Amidst the threat of walls being built to separate instead of to unite, rhetoric that divides instead of bringing together, we pray for you tonight, you who have been given the great privilege to worship in Jerusalem and on the holy ground where the Prince of Peace was born, who came to tear down the walls that separate people from each other and from God.

The message of peace and unity that the Babe of Bethlehem lived has always been so difficult for political leaders to comprehend because the use of force and military might is so much easier to understand when confronted with conflict. We know that this baby, born of Mary, and protected by Joseph, whose birth we celebrate tonight, came into this world with a radical love that will bring together all the peoples of the earth. Bricks and mortar, guns and swords are not His symbols. His way is one of open arms and hearts; an embrace from heaven to all the earth.

How Kirsten, Emily, Carrie and I wish we could celebrate with you this Christmas. Our years in Jerusalem have strengthened our faith and resolve to plead the cause of peace whenever and wherever we can. Be assured the world is watching and is in utter dismay at the scenes from Bethlehem: Know that the prayers of our global Anglican family are being lifted up for you tonight so that justice and peace will reign in the Land of the Holy One. Our eyes will be focussed tonight on that cave in Manger Square where the Prince of Peace was born and on you and all who are faithful to the Christmas message. Why? Because it is through such faithfulness that Christ is born in us again at Christmas and it is in each other that we truly see our Lord afresh in every generation.

No person can take from Bethlehem the reality we sing of at this time of the year. "The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight."

Yours ever,
The Revd Canon John L. Peterson
Secretary General of the Anglican Episcopal Communion, London

Anglican Communion News Service