Analysis of Episcopal Convention Resolutions Related to Israel
The following are the resolutions relating to the Arab-Israeli conflict found in the archives of the Episcopal Church from 1976-2018. They were found by searching https://www.episcopalarchives.org/cgi-bin/acts/acts_search.pl (1976-2015) and http://www.generalconvention.org/legislative-information-gc2018/ (2018).Each resolution that was approved was categorized as either innocuous, moderately biased pro-Palestinian Arab, artificially neutral, biased against Israel and strongly biased against Israel. There were none which could, by any stretch of the imagination, be considered friendly to Israel. There also weren't any truly neutral resolutions; the ones categorized as artificially neutral used neutral language that seemed to be an attempt to pretend they weren't biased against Israel.
The overall tally is:
| Innocuous | 1 |
| Moderately biased pro-Palestinian Arab | 3 |
| Artificially neutral | 3 |
| Biased against Israel | 11 |
| Strongly biased against Israel | 13 |
The following are the texts, along with whether they were approved ("Concur") and their categorizations.
Resolution Number: 2018-B003 On the Status of Jerusalem
Biased against Israel
Final Status: Concur
Calendared: N/A
Committee: 07 - Social Justice and International Policy
Proposed by: The Rt. Rev. Barry Beisner
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.
Resolution Number: 2018-B021 Support Aid to Palestinian Refugees
Biased against Israel
Final Status: Concur
Calendared: N/A
Committee: 07 - Social Justice and International Policy
Proposed by: The Rt. Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention strongly call upon the United States Government to maintain its historic commitment to alleviating the poverty of Palestinians and restore its full planned 2018 funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) so that it can continue to serve the over 5 million Palestinian refugees in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Gaza, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria; and be if further
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention also strongly call upon the United States Government to lift its funding freeze on United States Agency for International Development (USAID) programs which aid Palestinians.
Resolution Number: 2018-C038 Safeguard the Rights of Palestinian Children
Strongly biased against Israel
Final Status: Concur
Calendared: N/A
Committee: 07 - Social Justice and International Policy
Proposed by: Province I
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention call upon the Office of Government Relations to request assurances from Israeli Prime Minister and Palestinian Authority President that their governments have policies in place to accord all people under the age of 18 living within their jurisdictions the full range of rights and protections called for under international agreements to which their governments have subscribed; and be it further
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention of The Episcopal Church call on the State of Israel to guarantee basic rights and exercise a prohibition against torture and ill-treatment of detained children (defined as persons under 18 years old), noting that among the practices in Israel's military detention system that require change are, including but not limited to, the use of nighttime arrests in the child's home, physical and verbal abuse, blindfolds and restraints, strip searches, solitary confinement, coerced confessions and confessions written in Hebrew, as well as the separation of detained children from their parents and legal counselors (including the transfer of Palestinian children to prisons within the State of Israel that their parents are not permitted to visit); and be it further
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention request the Secretary of this Convention and the Office of Government Relations to communicate this call to the Prime Minister of Israel and the Israeli Ambassador to the United States; and be it further
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention call on the Secretary of State of the United States to certify annually that no funds obligated or expended in the previous year by the United States for assistance to Israel have been used to support the military detention, interrogation, abuse, or ill-treatment of Palestinian children in violation of international humanitarian law; and be it further
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention requests the Office of Government Relations to communicate this call to the Secretary of State of the United States as well as the President, Vice President, and the United States Senate.
Resolution Number: 2018-D018 Negotiating the Israeli/Palestinian Conflict
Biased against Israel
Final Status: Concur
Calendared: N/A
Committee: 07 - Social Justice and International Policy
Proposed by: The Rev. Canon Brian Grieves
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention of The Episcopal Church recognize the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to self-determination and to live as sovereign peoples in their homeland, with full human and civil rights and with democratic rule of one person, one vote; and be it further
Resolved, That the Episcopal Church reaffirm our commitment to a negotiated solution between the two parties guided by international law and supported by the international community; and be it further
Resolved, That the Episcopal Church acknowledge that such a peace agreement, agreed upon by both parties, may include a two-state solution as envisioned in the Oslo Accords, leading to a viable, sovereign state for Palestinians, comprising the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, alongside a secure and universally recognized State of Israel, or may encompass other solutions such as one binational state or confederation, recognizing that these possibilities are being raised as the material conditions for a two-state solution have deteriorated due to accelerated settlement expansion in East Jerusalem and the West Bank since the Oslo Accords were signed; and be it further
Resolved, That no people's right to self-determination should be exercised at the expense of another people's right to self-determination, and that any negotiated solution be founded upon mutual recognition of the humanity and past and present sufferings of all parties and provide guarantees for the human and civil rights of ethnic and religious minorities within any state, federation, or national boundaries that may be created, and that this right to self-determination has been robustly supported by the testimony of Palestinian Christians, Palestinian Muslims, American Jews and Israeli Jews at this Convention.
Resolution Number: 2018-D027 Pursuing Justice in Gaza
Strongly biased against Israel
Final Status: Concur
Calendared: N/A
Committee: 07 - Social Justice and International Policy
Proposed by: Mr. Newland Smith
Resolved, That the General Convention in light of Israel's escalating indifference to international law and the rights of civilians under the Geneva Convention and other treaties, the Convention calls on the Congress and President of the United States to cooperate with calls by the United Nations for independent, transparent investigations into the use of lethal force against unarmed civilians by the Israeli Defense Force, as well as by Palestinian forces; and be it further
Resolved, that if information of human rights violations by military forces is corroborated, the Convention stress the obligation of the US government to enforce the Leahy Amendment, which prohibits the USA from providing funds to foreign military units when human rights violations have been credibly identified; and be it further
Resolved, that the Convention urge both Israeli and Palestinian governments to engage in non-violent methods of conflict resolution, using justice-seeking non-governmental groups in Israel-Palestine and beyond.
Resolution Number: 2015-B013
Artificially Neutral
Title: Reaffirm a Policy of Reconciliation and Restorative Justice in the Middle East
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Substituted
Final Text:
Resolved, That The 78th General Convention reaffirm the vocation of the Church as an agent of reconciliation and restorative justice, and recognize that meaningful reconciliation can help to engender sustainable, long-lasting peace and that such reconciliation must incorporate both political action and locally driven grassroots efforts; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention, lamenting the diplomatic and political stalemate following recent elections in Israel, reaffirm this Church's commitment to a just and peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through a negotiated settlement between the parties resulting in two states for two peoples: a secure and universally recognized Israel living alongside a secure and viable state for the Palestinian people; and be it further
Resolved, That The Episcopal Church commend the United States government for its efforts during the past triennium to broker negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, but express grave sorrow at the collapse of those negotiations in 2014 and the subsequent deterioration of political relations between the parties; and be it further
Resolved, That The Episcopal Church, recognizing that simple calls for the parties to return to the negotiating table are no longer sufficient to address the urgency of the situation, challenge the United States government, in coordination with global partners , to develop and offer a new, comprehensive, and time-bound framework to the government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority for the conclusive negotiation of a two-state peace agreement and the resolution of all final-status issues; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention urge all national governments represented in The Episcopal Church to invest substantial diplomatic capital in support of such a framework; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention urge the Presiding Bishop and the staff of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society to continue its exemplary work to enhance understanding, build political consensus, and organize grassroots support within The Episcopal Church for this political action; and be it further
Resolved, That Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society: (1) convene a collaborative group of experts and interfaith partners to collect a wide range of resources designed to inform and enliven a conversation among those holding differing convictions; (2) encourage early travel of the 27th Presiding Bishop to the Holy Land, in the spirit of interfaith fellowship, to establish and build relationships with leaders of the communities of the Children of Abraham working for peace, justice, and reconciliation; and (3) continue its commendable efforts to assist Episcopalians to learn about and understand the traumas, hurt, suffering, fears, pain, aspirations, and hopes that shape the daily lives of all living in Israel and the Palestinian Territories; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention commend the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society's investment of $500,000 during the last triennium in the infrastructure of the Palestinian economy as a tangible step toward building a viable Palestinian state and strengthening the economic well-being of Palestinian communities; and to urge Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society to expand this loan investment at least twofold in the next triennium; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention encourage The Episcopal Church to (1) embrace the principles of restorative justice in its advocacy and engagement for the just resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; and (2) engage and support the voices of both Israelis and Palestinians - especially those who are themselves victims of violence and injustice-who seek peace with justice through nonviolent and restorative responses to the conflict; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention support existing efforts toward restorative justice by urging the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society to identify and find creative ways to commend, support, and elevate the work of local peace-building and economic development initiatives, including those of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the Middle East and grassroots organizations jointly led by Israelis and Palestinians; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention request the Joint Standing Committee on Program, Budget and Finance to consider a budget allocation of $675,000 for the implementation of this resolution to be used as follows: (1) a total of $60,000 over the course of the triennium to each of five existing local, grassroots peace-building initiatives jointly led by Israelis and Palestinians to support and expand their work; (2) $300,000 to the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the Middle East to support and expand its sustainable peace-building efforts in Israel and the Palestinian Territories through its ministries of health care and education; and (3) $75,000 to cover other costs associated with the implementation of this resolution.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Salt Lake City, 2015 (New York: General Convention, 2015), pp. 913-915.
Resolution Number: 2015-C018
Biased against Israel
Title: Affirm the Work of Christians in Israel and the Occupied Territories
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Substituted
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church express its solidarity with and support for Christians in Israel and the Occupied Territories; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention affirm the work of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem in healing, education, and pastoral care; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention affirm the work of Christians engaged in relationship building, interfaith dialogue, non-violence training, and advocacy for the rights of Palestinians; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention urge Episcopalians to demonstrate our solidarity by making pilgrimage to Israel and the Occupied Territories and learning from our fellow Christians in the region; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention request the Program, Budget and Finance Committee consider allocating $15,000 during the next triennium for the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society to produce a video and study guide based on the experiences and learnings of pilgrims to the region and Christians living in the region, to be distributed to the Episcopal Church.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Salt Lake City, 2015 (New York: General Convention, 2015), pp. 836-837.
Resolution Number: 2015-C018
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Affirm the Work of Christians in Israel and the Occupied Territories
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Substituted
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church express its solidarity with and support for Christians in Israel and the Occupied Territories; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention affirm the work of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem in healing, education, and pastoral care; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention affirm the work of Christians engaged in relationship building, interfaith dialogue, non-violence training, and advocacy for the rights of Palestinians; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention urge Episcopalians to demonstrate our solidarity by making pilgrimage to Israel and the Occupied Territories and learning from our fellow Christians in the region; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention request the Program, Budget and Finance Committee consider allocating $15,000 during the next triennium for the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society to produce a video and study guide based on the experiences and learnings of pilgrims to the region and Christians living in the region, to be distributed to the Episcopal Church.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Salt Lake City, 2015 (New York: General Convention, 2015), pp. 836-837.
Resolution Number: 2015-D016
Title: On the Topic of Investment in Israeli-Occupied Palestine
Legislative Action Taken: Rejected
Final Text:
Resolution Rejected. See Legislative History for original text of resolution.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Salt Lake City, 2015 (New York: General Convention, 2015), pp. 357-359.
Legislative History
Author: The Very Rev. Walter Brownridge
Originating House: House of Bishops
Originating Committee: Social Justice and International Policy
House of Bishops
The House of Bishops Committee on Social Justice and International Policy presented its Report #19 on Resolution D016 (Being Socially Responsible Investors in Palestine and Israel) and moved adoption of a substitute.
Original Text of Resolution:
(D016)
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That the 78th General Convention direct the Executive Council's committee on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), consistent with existing policy of corporate engagement adopted in October 2005, to develop a list of U.S. and foreign corporations that provide goods and services that support the infrastructure of Israel's Occupation, and maintain and update such a list annually, and to vigorously conduct an audit of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society (DFMS) investment portfolio to determine which of these companies, if any, are in the portfolio, and report its findings to the Winter Meeting of Executive Council, 2016, to be made public through the Episcopal News Service; and be it further
Resolved, That, consistent with existing Episcopal Church policy, CSR communicate by letter, emails, meetings and otherwise with the companies identified in the DFMS investment portfolio as being involved in the maintenance of the Occupation, if any, requesting that said companies withdraw from their business operations in Occupied Palestine until it is ended, and report on such corporate engagement to the June, 2016, meeting of Executive Council to be made public through the Episcopal News service; and be it further
Resolved, That Executive Council, with the aid of its CSR committee, file shareholder resolutions with any companies earlier identified, at its Fall meeting, 2016, asking said companies who have not agreed to terminate their business operations in Occupied Palestine and with whom dialogue has not been fruitful, to begin a process of disinvestment; and be it further
Resolved, That upon receiving the position of said companies to these shareholder resolutions, Executive Council, by its June meeting of 2017, with the aid of the CSR committee, develop a process of divestment from those companies who have refused to disinvest or in which further engagement is deemed futile, and are considered by CSR to be the most egregious supporters of the infrastructure of the Occupation, and to develop a process for placing on its No Buy List those companies earlier identified as supporting the Occupation, whether currently held or not, and for Council to make known its process for divestment and adding to the No Buy List (and the companies involved) through the Episcopal News Service, and that Council provide a report to the 79th General Convention on its implementation of this resolution; and be it further
Resolved, That this General Convention directs the Executive Council to establish a work group to identify a list of products made or businesses present in West Bank settlements (including East Jerusalem) and publishing them within one year of adjournment of this Convention so that Church entities, including congregations and individual members can seek to boycott those products and/or businesses which are illegal under international law; and be it further
Resolved, That Executive Council identify $15,000 for the work to be done in 2015, and that the Joint Standing Committee on Program, Budget and Finance provide $30,000 in 2016 and $30,000 in 2017 and $30,000 in 2018 to fund the work of CSR on this and other issues.
Committee Substitute:
Resolved, The House of Deputies concurring, that the 78th General Convention of The Episcopal Church align its investment practices with its moral values as articulated in the baptismal promises "to respect the dignity of every human being" and "to work for justice and peace;" and be it further
Resolved, That the Episcopal Church will work earnestly and with haste to avoid profiting from the illegal occupation of Gaza and the West Bank, and will seek to align itself with, and learn from, the good work of our Ecumenical and Anglican Communion partners, who have worked for decades in support of our Palestinian Christian sisters and brothers and others oppressed by occupation, particularly the Board of Governors of the Church of England and their report of 2006, which states that they will no longer invest in companies that profit from the illegal occupation of Gaza and the West Bank; and be it further
Resolved, That the 78th General Convention direct the Executive Council Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to develop a list of U.S. and foreign corporations that provide goods and services that support the infrastructure of Israel's Occupation for their Fall 2016 meeting to be reported to the Church and to maintain and update such a list annually; and be it further
Resolved, That the 78th General Convention direct the Executive Council to identify a list of products made and businesses present in illegal settlements for their Spring 2016 meeting to be communicated to the Church; and be it further
Resolved, That The 78th General Convention directs the Executive Council to continue to monitor its investments and apply its CSR policy to any possible future investments in companies identified on the above requested lists.
The question was called.
Motion carried
Debate terminated
A vote was taken on Resolution D016.
Motion defeated
Resolution rejected
(Communicated to the House of Deputies in HB Message #214)
Resolution Rejected.
Abstract: The 78th General Convention rejects a resolution regarding withholding financial investment in the occupied territories of Palestine under Israel control.
Notes:
The Committee was discharged of resolutions A052 and C012 in favor of 2015-D016.
Resolution Number: 2012-B017
Moderately biased pro-Palestinian Arab
Title: Support for Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 77th General Convention call upon the Bishops and Dioceses of the Episcopal Church to join in fundraising efforts to help meet the shortfall created by the reduction in funding, and to advocate through The Episcopal Church for restoration of humanitarian fiscal aid to Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza from the global community.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Indianapolis, 2012 (New York: General Convention, 2012), p. 189.
Resolution Number: 2012-B019
Biased against Israel
Title: Support Israeli-Palestinian Peace
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Substituted
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 77th General Convention express its regret at the lack of progress in negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians toward a just and peaceful resolution of the longstanding conflict between the two peoples, and call for the cessation of violence by all parties, and reaffirm this Church's commitment to a negotiated two-state solution in which a secure and universally recognized State of Israel lives alongside a free, viable, and secure state for the Palestinian people, with a shared Jerusalem as the capital of both; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention commend the leadership of the Presiding Bishop in calling all Episcopalians to advocacy for an end to the conflict and support for the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the other Christian communities of the Holy Land, particularly through her 2011 Pastoral Letter on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (accessible on the website of The Episcopal Church); and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention encourage all dioceses, as well as the Executive Council and the Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns, to engage actively in the discipline of advocacy, education, and prayer for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, as well as the provision of humanitarian aid that promotes peace and reconciliation; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention affirm the importance of interfaith dialogue in the resolution of the Arab-Israeli-Palestinian conflict, both in the Holy Land itself and in other contexts around the world; and decry religious extremism and fundamentalism in all their forms and the violence that arises from their expression; and be it further
Resolved, That the 77th General Convention of The Episcopal Church affirm the truth that some mission is best enacted at the local level, and therefore urges all congregations to seek, over the next Triennium, to engage with local Jewish and Muslim congregations to study peace with justice in the Middle East, and urges that the narratives and theologies that inform the conversation on peace with justice in the Middle East be particular focuses of attention; and be it further
Resolved, That the Theology Committee of the House of Bishops, the Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns, the resources of the Episcopal seminaries, and the Advocacy and Networking Committee of the Executive Council be called upon the support, through the triennium, the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian study on peace with justice in the Middle East, and produce and annotated bibliography of resources to be posted on the website of The Episcopal Church; and be it further
Resolved, That the triennial study groups on Middle East peace with justice prepare report sharing what they learned about a constructive path to peace with justice, and that these reports be collected and shared with the Church by the Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns; and be it further
Resolved, That the Presiding Bishop develop an interfaith model pilgrimage composed equally of Episcopalians, Jews, and Muslims in order to further encourage the travel of pilgrims and witnesses to the Holy Land in order to experience the multiple narratives of the diverse peoples who call the land their home; and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention affirm positive investment as a necessary means to create a sound economy and a sustainable infrastructure in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip because without these measures there can and will be no viable Palestinian state and no enduring peace; and be it further
Resolved, That in seeking to encourage such positive investment in the Palestinian territories, Episcopalians give priority to investment in the institutions of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, which provide healthcare, education, and social services without discrimination on the basis of religion, political ideology, gender, socioeconomic standing, or national identity; and be it further
Resolved, That the work of the American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the Good Friday Offering be commended to all Episcopalians as faithful vehicles for providing economic and other support to the Diocese of Jerusalem and its institutions; and be it further
Resolved, That, as a component of this Church's support for positive financial investment in the Palestinian territories, the General Convention urge the Economic Justice Loan Committee to consider a loan of at least $200,000 to strengthen the economic infrastructure of the Palestinian territories.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Indianapolis, 2012 (New York: General Convention, 2012), pp. 221-222.
Resolution Number: 2012-C060
Title: On the Topic of a Resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict
Legislative Action Taken: Rejected
Final Text:
Resolution died with adjournment. See Legislative History for original text of resolution.
Legislative History
Author: Diocese of Western North Carolina
Originating House: House of Deputies
Originating Committee: National and International Concerns
House of Deputies
The House of Deputies Committee on National and International Concerns presented its Report #29 on Resolution C060 (Peace in Palestinian/Israeli Conflict) and moved adoption with amendment. Deputy Hamilton of Maine presented the Minority Report.
Original Text of Resolution
(C060)
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 77th General Convention, mindful of the impasse in reaching a just resolution to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, calls on the Executive Council (using appropriate staff) to develop and implement a strategy of advocacy and education in the Church during the next triennium to further a just resolution of the conflict utilizing existing policies and resources, including but not limited to the following:
A robust use of the Episcopal Public Policy Network in promoting Church policies in our nation's capital
Participating in corporate social responsibility by more vigorous and public corporate engagement with companies in the Church's investment portfolio that do business in illegal Israeli settlements or contribute to the infrastructure of the Occupation
Identifying a project of economic engagement through a loan of at least $200,000 from the Church's economic justice loan fund that strengthens the economic infrastructure of the Territories
Assist individual Episcopalians by providing information on products made and distributed from illegal Israeli settlements so that they can make informed consumer choices
An examination of actions the U.S. might take to support international law and human rights; and be it further
Resolved, That Council include in its planning a study in the next triennium in every Diocese of "KAIROS PALESTINE 2009" released in December 2009 by Palestinian Christian leaders to address the plight of Palestinian Christians living under military occupation in the West Bank and Gaza as well as those Christians living within the state of Israel who do not enjoy the full rights and privileges of Jewish-Israeli citizens; and be it further
Resolved, That the Council further consider using as a resource for this study plan an Episcopal version of Steadfast Hope (adapted from the Presbyterian original) as developed by the Palestine Israel Network of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship; and be it further
Resolved, That the Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns give high priority to peace with justice in the Holy Land and report to the 78th General Convention of The Episcopal Church with recommendations on how best to support our Anglican brothers and sisters in the Holy Land; and be it further
Resolved, That all bishops, clergy and lay people of the Episcopal Church in the United States be encouraged to travel to the region as pilgrims and witnesses, and to provide various forms of support for the Church in the Holy Land, including the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, its parishes, and its Bishop, The Rt. Rev. Suheil Dawani, including through the sterling work of the Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the Good Friday Offering, and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention request the Joint Standing Committee on Program, Budget and Finance provide a budget allocation of $5,000 to Council and staff in assisting with this work.
Committee Amendment
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 77th General Convention, mindful of the impasse in reaching a just resolution to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, calls on the Presiding Bishop and the Executive Council Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility the Executive Council (using appropriate staff) to develop and implement a strategy of advocacy and education in the Church during the next triennium to further a just resolution of the conflict utilizing existing policies and resources, including but not limited to the following:
Encourage a robust use of the Episcopal Public Policy Network in promoting Church policies in our nation's capital
Participateing in corporate social responsibility by more vigorous and public corporate engagement with companies in the Church's investment portfolio that do business in illegal Israeli settlements or contribute to the infrastructure of the Occupation
Identifying a project of economic engagement through a loan of at least $200,000 from the Church's economic justice loan fund that strengthens the economic infrastructure of the Territories
Assist individual Episcopalians by providing information on products made and distributed from illegal Israeli settlements so that they can make informed consumer choices
an examination of actions the U.S. might take to support international law and human rights; and be it further
Resolved, That Council include in its planning a study in the next triennium in every Diocese of "KAIROS PALESTINE 2009" released in December 2009 by Palestinian Christian leaders to address the plight of Palestinian Christians living under military occupation in the West Bank and Gaza as well as those Christians living within the state of Israel who do not enjoy the full rights and privileges of Jewish-Israeli citizens; and be it further
Resolved, That the Council further consider using as a resource for this study plan an Episcopal version of Steadfast Hope (adapted from the Presbyterian original) as developed by the Palestine Israel Network of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship; and be it further
Resolved, That the Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns give high priority to peace with justice in the Holy Land and report to the 78th General Convention of The Episcopal Church with recommendations on how best to support our Anglican brothers and sisters in the Holy Land; and be it further
Resolved, That all bishops, clergy and lay people of the Episcopal Church in the United States be encouraged to travel to the region as pilgrims and witnesses, and to provide various forms of support for the Church in the Holy Land, including the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, its parishes, and its Bishop, The Rt. Rev. Suheil Dawani, including through the sterling work of the Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the Good Friday Offering, and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention request the Joint Standing Committee on Program, Budget and Finance provide a budget allocation of $5,000 to Council and staff in assisting with this work.
Minority Report
While we do not oppose adoption of C-060a, some members of Committee 09-National and International Concerns wish to express disappointment that the 77th General Convention has not gone far enough in considering measures that would increase awareness and advocacy toward ending the Occupation of Palestine. We are disappointed in the failure to recommend the Episcopal version of Steadfast Hope or the Kairos Palestine statement as resources to aid dioceses and congregations in studying varying narratives regarding Middle East peace issues. These resources are written unapologetically from Palestinian perspectives, to hear their voices, which are rarely heard in our nation's discourse. Mark Braverman, an American Jew, said at the hearing on Middle East resolutions: "The reluctance to hear these voices and to advocate for even a hearing on the question of boycotts and divestment is not because of any question about the facts of the situation. It arises from fear about the impact on Christian Jewish relations on both institutional and personal levels....This cause has nothing to do with the Christian project to reconcile with the Jewish people. ... It is, rather, about being faithful Christians....It is the elephant in the room." We agree that this is not about Interfaith dialogue. It is about making a faithful witness to end the Occupation.
Kairos Palestine is a cry to be heard from 2,797 Palestinian Christians living under Occupation. We show enormous disrespect by refusing to acknowledge what they have said. It is an opportunity missed for our Church to have affirmed that grassroots Episcopalians in the U.S. are in solidarity with grassroots Episcopalians in the diocese of Jerusalem. Nonetheless, we join with members across the Church who will continue to walk with our sister and brother Christians in the Holy Land. We also stand with all other Palestinians living under Occupation working for peace and justice and an end to their suffering.
We note that the patriarchs and heads of Churches in the Holy Land, including the Episcopal Bishop of Jerusalem, responded to this cry in 2009, when they issued a statement acknowledging the Kairos document in 2009, (copy of which can be found in the Kairos document itself) and have not publicly repudiated it. The witness to justice for Palestinians is not simply the work of prelates and patriarchs, it is the work of all the baptized. We are all part of the Body of Christ. As we did in the Civil Rights era and during Apartheid, our witness for justice for the Palestinian people will continue.
Deputy Newland Smith, Diocese of Chicago
Deputy Brenda Hamilton, Diocese of Maine
Deputy William Stokes, Diocese of Southeast Florida
Deputy Sarah Lawton, Diocese of California
Deputy Gray of California moved to amend the resolution.
Proposed Amendment
Following "Church policies in our nation's capital" add "; and be it further Resolved That this Convention urges all Episcopalians to study the 2009 Kairos Palestine document and "Steadfast Hope Study Guide": and be it further Resolved that this Convention directs the Church to divest from all companies that enable the occupation and urges Episcopalians to boycott products manufactured on illegal Israeli settlements." Delete "Participate in corporate social responsibility by more vigorous and public corporate engagement with companies in the Church's investment portfolio that contribute to the infrastructure of the Occupation".
The President announced that time allotted for debate had elapsed.
A vote was taken on the Gray amendment.
Motion defeated
Amendment defeated
House of Deputies
A vote was taken on Resolution C060. A voice vote was inconclusive. A paper vote was taken.
Motion carried
Resolution adopted with amendment
(Communicated to the House of Bishops in HD Message #158)
House of Bishops
The House of Bishops Committee on National and International Concerns presented its Report #20 on HD Message #158 on Resolution C060 (Peace in Palestinian/Israeli Conflict) and moved concurrence.
The Bishop of Northwestern Pennsylvania moved to postpone indefinitely.
Motion carried
Consideration postponed
Resolution Died With Adjournment.
Abstract: The 77th General Convention rejects a resolution modifying existing policies and resources for developing an Episcopal Church strategy to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
Notes:
Resolutions 2012-B010, 2012-C026, 2012-C061, 2012-C062, 2012-C063, 2012-C064, 2012-C065, 2012-C067, 2012-C082, 2012-C092, and 2012-C104 and were discharged because the matter was already acted upon in 2012-C060.
Resolution Number: 2009-A037
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Pray for the Wall Around Bethlehem to Come Down
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention, urge every Episcopalian and every Episcopal Church and every Episcopal diocese, to pray, especially in Advent and during the Christmas season, for the Wall around Bethlehem and all other barriers to come down:
"Almighty God, Creator of the wonderful complex diversity of humanity; you have fashioned us in your image and commanded us to love one another;
Reach down your divine hand so that the wall shall come down in Bethlehem, the birthplace of your Son, the Prince of Peace; And may the crumbling walls herald the fall of all barriers that divide us.
Bind us together so that love gives rise to an abundance of tenderness among all people; and may our hearts like Mary's magnify the Lord, and may your love shower down throughout the world so all divisions are scattered and washed away.
We ask this all with expectant hearts through Christ Jesus, our Lord, Amen."
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Anaheim, 2009 (New York: General Convention, 2009), pp. 394-395.
Resolution Number: 2009-B027
Title: On the Topic of Peace and Statehood in Historic Palestine
Legislative Action Taken: Rejected
Final Text:
Resolution Rejected by Non-concurrence. See Legislative History for original text of resolution.
Legislative History
Author: The Rt. Rev. M. Thomas Shaw III, SSJE
Originating House: House of Deputies
Originating Committee: Committee on National and International Concerns
House of Deputies
Point of Order
Deputy Snow of Alaska moved to suspend the Rules to take up Resolution B027 (Peace between Israel and Palestine).
Motion carried
Rules suspended
The House of Deputies Committee on National and International Concerns presented its Report #42 on Resolution B027 (Peace between Israel and Palestine) and moved adoption of a substitute.
Original Text of Resolution:
(B027)
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 76th General Convention, considering the Church's mission to promote peace for all God's people, warmly applauds the initiative of President Barack Obama and his Middle East envoy, George Mitchell, to bring stronger and more resolute American diplomatic leadership to the cause of peace between Israel and Palestine and to the Middle East; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention acknowledge the tragic histories of the Jewish and Palestinian people as victims of injustice, wars, dispersion and exile, the existential fear and insecurity this has created for both peoples, and the distress their conflict has caused throughout the Middle East; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention respect the profound commitment of Israelis and Palestinians to the land they regard as their homeland and their national aspirations, and call upon the U.S. Government, in keeping with American ideals of equality, justice and human rights, to pursue a fair and balanced approach to making peace that fulfills the fundamental needs of both peoples; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention acknowledge that peace between Israel and Palestine can be achieved only by a division of historic Palestine into two sovereign states, and that this division should be defined, more or less, by the 1949 Armistice line, with mutually agreed border adjustments; and be it further
Resolved, That the humanitarian situation in Gaza calls for the unrestricted opening of borders for both humanitarian and reconstruction resources; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention understand and respect the religious and historic claims of both Israelis and Palestinians, as well as of Jews, Christians and Muslims, worldwide, toward the Holy City of Jerusalem and its sacred holy sites, and that a just and lasting territorial division must include a shared Jerusalem in which the State of Israel and a future State of Palestine will maintain their respective capitals; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention recognize that the use of force, violence or arbitrary power by Israelis or Palestinians to determine the outcome of this conflict must be condemned absolutely, and that peace can be achieved only through peaceful negotiations that would lead to the emergence of a Palestinian state living side by side and at peace with Israel; and be it further
Resolved, That the Convention urge all Episcopalians to work and pray for the liberating of Israelis and Palestinians from generations of conflict, freeing the Middle East and the world from tensions wrought by this struggle, restoring harmony among Jews, Muslims and Christians worldwide for whom the Holy Land is sacred, and for creating peace based on the universal value of justice, as a compelling priority for the Church and for the United States of America.
Committee Substitute:
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 76th General Convention, considering the Church's mission to promote peace for all God's people, warmly applaud the initiative of President Barack Obama and his Middle East envoy, George Mitchell, to bring stronger and more resolute American diplomatic leadership to the cause of peace between Israel and Palestine and to the Middle East; and be it further
Resolved, That we express our appreciation to Bishop Suheil Dawani and the Diocese of Jerusalem for their ongoing witness and dedication to reconciliation and peace; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention acknowledge the tragic histories of the Jewish and Palestinian peoples as victims of injustice, wars, dispersion and exile, the existential fear and insecurity this has created for both peoples, and the distress their conflict has caused throughout the Middle East; and be it further
Resolved, That the 76th General Convention respect the profound commitment of Israelis and Palestinians to the land they regard as their homeland; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention call upon Israelis and Palestinians to recognize one another's right to statehood, economic viability and security, and that all other nations do likewise; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention call for the cessation of violence by all Palestinians and Israelis; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention call on the Government of the United States of America to practice financial transparency in all of its aid to Palestinians and to Israel; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention call for the end of the air, water and land blockade of the Gaza Strip thereby permitting free and uninhibited access for all humanitarian assistance, for educational, reconstruction and development materials and for ordinary trade; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention call for the wall in whatever its form around and through Palestinian land to be brought down; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention call for an end to the on-going confiscation of Palestinian land, demolition of housing and the displacement of people; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention call for a just resolution for Palestinian refugees; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention call for the creation of a single, viable, sovereign Palestinian state, independent of the State of Israel, comprising all of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with each state controlling its own water rights, and with Jerusalem serving as capital of both Israel and Palestine, in order to encourage a comprehensive and enduring peace.
Deputy Lewis of Southwest Florida moved to divide the first seven resolve clauses and from the last five resolve clauses.
Motion defeated
Division defeated
Deputy Moss of Western Massachusetts moved the previous question.
Motion carried
Debate terminated
A vote was taken on substitute Resolution B027.
Motion carried
Substitute resolution adopted
(Communicated to the House of Bishops in HD Message #193)
House of Bishops
The House of Bishops Committee on National and International Concerns presented its Report #55 on HD Message #193 on Resolution B027 (Peace between Israel and Palestine) and moved concurrence.
The Bishop of New York moved an amendment.
Proposed Amendment:
Delete the seventh and eight resolve clauses.
Motion defeated
Amendment defeated
The question was called.
Motion carried
Debate terminated
A vote was taken on Resolution B027.
Motion defeated
Resolution rejected
(Communicated to the House of Deputies in HB Message #290)
Resolution Rejected: Adopted by One House Only
Abstract: The 76th General Convention rejects a resolution encouraging The Episcopal Church to promote peace between Israel and Palestine, acknowledging two sovereign states, and calling for the unrestricted opening of borders.
Notes:
Resolutions 2009-A038, 2009-A039, 2009-A040, 2009-D030 and 2009-D059 were discharged because the matter was already acted on in 2009-B027.
Resolution Number: 2006-A011
Title: On the Topic of Peace Between Israel and Palestine
Legislative Action Taken: Rejected
Final Text:
Resolution died with adjournment. See Legislative History for original text of resolution.
Legislative History
Author: The Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns
Originating House: House of Bishops
Originating Committee: Committee on National and International Concerns
House of Bishops
The House of Bishops Committee on National and International Concerns presented its Report #22 on Resolution A011 (Israel/Palestine Peace Commitments) and moved adoption with amendment.
Original Text of Resolution:
(A011)
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That the 75th General Convention reaffirm The Episcopal Church's commitment to:
the rightful existence of the State of Israel as a nation among nations;
the rightful existence of a State of Palestine as a nation among nations;
the recognition of Jerusalem as the shared capital of the two states;
the end of all violence and its crippling impact on Israeli and Palestinian societies;
the withdrawal by Israel from its settlements in the West Bank;
the return of all parties to the negotiating table rather than unilateral action by any party;
the eradication of the sin of anti-Semitism.
Committee Amendment:
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That the 75th General Convention reaffirm The Episcopal Church's commitment to:
the rightful existence of the State of Israel as a nation among nations;
the rightful existence of a State of Palestine as a nation among nations;
the recognition of Jerusalem as the shared capital of the two states;
the end of all violence and its crippling impact on Israeli and Palestinian societies;
the withdrawal by Israel from all occupied Palestinian territories as established in 1967its settlements in the West Bank;
the return of all parties to the negotiating table rather than unilateral action by any party;
the eradication of the sins of anti-Semitism and all other forms of racism.
Motion carried
Resolution adopted with amendment
(Communicated to the House of Deputies in HB Message #229)
Resolution Died With Adjournment.
Report Reference: Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns, Reports to the 75th General Convention, 2006, pp. 75-90.
Abstract: The 75th General Convention rejects a resolution on Israel and Palestine peace commitments.
Notes:
Resolution A011 was reported to the House in place of B012, which was discharged.
Resolution Number: 2006-A012
Title: On the Topic of Israel's Occupation of Palestine
Legislative Action Taken: Rejected
Final Text:
Resolution died with adjournment. See Legislative History for original text of resolution.
Legislative History
Author: The Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns
Originating House: House of Bishops
Originating Committee: Committee on National and International Concerns
House of Bishops
The House of Bishops Committee on National and International Concerns presented its Report #29 on Resolution A012 (Palestine/Israel Peace Process) and moved adoption with amendment.
Original Text of Resolution:
(A012)
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That the 75th General Convention declare that the following positions constitute policies of The Episcopal Church and direct The Episcopal Church's Office of Peace and Justice Ministries to advocate:
an end to the isolation of East Jerusalem and Bethlehem from the West Bank created by the continued construction of Israeli settlements, settler roads and the Wall;
removal of the Wall;
assurance of human rights for Palestinians;
support for the return of sovereign control of Gaza's airspace, coastline and borders to the Palestinian people; and
assurance that no U.S. tax dollars are used to finance the Occupation, directly or indirectly.
Committee Amendment:
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That the 75th General Convention declare that the following positions constitute policies of The Episcopal Churchand direct The Episcopal Church's Office of Peace and Justice Ministries to advocate:
an end to the isolation of East Jerusalem and Bethlehem from the West Bank created by the continued construction of Israeli settlements, settler roads and the barrierWall;
removal of the barrier Wall by Israel where it violates Palestinian territory and termination of the policy and practice of terrorism by any constituency of the Palestinian Authority;
assurance of human rights for Palestinians and Israelis;
support for the return of sovereign control of Gaza's airspace, and coastline and bordersto the Palestinian people and mutual respect for borders; and
elimination of corruption within the Palestinian Authority and appropriate financial transparency to better serve human and economic rights of Palestinians; and
assurance that no U.S. tax dollars are used, directly or indirectly, to finance the building of the barrier and bypass roads that support the settlements Occupation, directly or indirectly.
Motion carried
Resolution adopted with amendment
(Communicated to the House of Deputies in HB Message #235)
Resolution Died With Adjournment.
Report Reference: Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns, Reports to the 75th General Convention, 2006, pp. 75-90.
Abstract: The 75th General Convention rejects a resolution on the Palestine and Israel peace process.
Resolution Number: 2006-A013
Title: On the Topic of Investments in Support of an Economically Viable Palestine
Legislative Action Taken: Rejected
Final Text:
Resolution died with adjournment. See Legislative History for original text of resolution.
Legislative History
Author: The Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns
Originating House: House of Bishops
Originating Committee: Committee on National and International Concerns
House of Bishops
The House of Bishops Committee on National and International Concerns presented its Report #16 on Resolution A013 (Investment in Palestine) and moved adoption.
Original Text of Resolution:
(A013)
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That the 75th General Convention request Executive Council to consider investments in support of an economically viable Palestine.
Motion carried
Resolution adopted
(Communicated to the House of Deputies in HB Message #211)
Resolution Died With Adjournment.
Report Reference: Standing Commission on Anglican and International Peace with Justice Concerns, Reports to the 75th General Convention, 2006, pp. 75-90.
Abstract: The 75th General Convention rejects a resolution on investment in Palestine.
Resolution Number: 2003-A028
Biased against Israel
Title: Encourage Support for Women and Children in War-Torn Areas
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Substituted and Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 74th General Convention encourage dioceses to assist all Episcopalians to learn about the plight of and provide support for women and children of all faiths in war torn areas, recent examples including Israel/Palestine, Afghanistan, Iraq, Colombia, Sudan, and Liberia.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, 2003 (New York: General Convention, 2004), p. 327.
Resolution Number: 2003-D002
Title: On the Topic of an International Peace Zone for the Jerusalem Area
Legislative Action Taken: Rejected
Final Text:
Resolution Rejected. See Legislative History for original text of resolution.
Legislative History
Author: Mr. John R. Roberts (Massachusetts)
Originating House: House of Deputies
Originating Committee: Committee on National and International Concerns
House of Deputies
The House of Deputies Committee on National and International Concerns presented its Report #22 on Resolution D002 (International Peace Zone for the Jerusalem Area) and moved the resolution, recommending rejection.
Original Text of Resolution:
(D002)
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 74th General Convention urge the United Nations, supported fully by the United States and international leaders, to establish an International Peace Zone for the Jerusalem Area; and be it further
Resolved, That the 74th General Convention urge the United Nations to commit to the Peace Zone's endurance by moving its Headquarters to the Peace Zone.
Motion defeated
Resolution rejected
(Communicated to the House of Bishops in HD Message #242)
Resolution Rejected.
Abstract: The 74th General Convention rejects a resolution to urge the United Nations to establish an International Peace Zone for the Jerusalem area.
Resolution Number: 2003-D008
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Urge Israel to End Policy of Demolition of Palestinian Homes
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 74th General Convention recognize that Israeli demolition of Palestinian homes in the Gaza Strip and the Occupied Territories of the West Bank and East Jerusalem is illegal under international law and is a deterrent to the peace process, and therefore call upon the President and the U.S. government to urge the State of Israel to end its policy of the demolition of Palestinian homes.
[At the request of the House of Bishops, the following reference is added: Geneva Convention for the Protection of Civilians, 1948. Ed.]
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, 2003 (New York: General Convention, 2004), p. 320f.
Resolution Number: 2003-D081
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Oppose Construction of the Israeli Security Wall
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 74th General Convention recognize that the 360 kilometer long Israeli security wall currently under construction and the proposed additional 240 kilometer extension are impediments to the implementation of the performance-based roadmap leading to a final and comprehensive negotiated settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by 2005, as presented in President Bush's speech of 24 June 2002 and welcomed by the EU, Russia and the UN in the 16 July 2002 and 17 September 2002 Quartet Ministerial statements; and be it further
Resolved, That the 74th General Convention convey to the President, the Secretary of State and the National Security Advisor of the United States our support for their ongoing questioning of the construction of this wall.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, 2003 (New York: General Convention, 2004), p. 328f.
Resolution Number: 2000-B013
Biased against Israel
Title: Call for Release of Mordechai Vanunu from Prison
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That in this year of Jubilee the Episcopal Church, while recognizing that Mordechai Vanunu violated his oath of secrecy for reasons of conscience in the country of Israel, urge the President of the United States on humanitarian grounds, to seek his immediate release through diplomatic channels.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Denver, 2000 (New York: General Convention, 2001), p. 464.
Resolution Number: 2000-B016
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Affirm Refugee Rights of Palestinians and Israelis
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred as Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 73rd General Convention of the Episcopal Church affirm, in the light of the final status negotiations now underway, the right of Palestinians and Israelis to self-determination, independence, and sovereignty based in justice, peace, and security for the two peoples; and be it further
Resolved, That the 73rd General Convention of the Episcopal Church affirm the principle of the right of return for every Palestinian, as well as restitution/compensation for their loss as called for by the United Nations; and be it further
Resolved, That this General Convention through the Office of Peace and Justice Ministries (especially through the Office of Government Relations) (a) urge the officials and members of the Episcopal Church to pray and work for this position, and (b) communicate this resolution to the President of the United States, the Secretary of State, the appropriate members of the Congress of the United States, the President of the Palestinian Authority, the Prime Minister of Israel, and the Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Denver, 2000 (New York: General Convention, 2001), p. 650.
Resolution Number: 1997-A107
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Recognize Jerusalem as the Capital of Both Israel and Palestine
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Substituted and Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That this 72nd General Convention recognize Jerusalem as the seat of the Abrahamic peoples, acknowledge the historic presence of Jews, Palestinian Christians and Muslims and affirm:
that Jerusalem should serve as the capital for two sovereign and independent states, Israel and Palestine;
the government of Israel should remove forthwith all roadblocks and obstacles preventing free access to Jerusalem for Palestinians;
the government of Israel should change its planning policies so that Palestinians have equal rights to build housing in Jerusalem and develop their institutions which have been restricted since 1967;
East Jerusalem, as an integral part of the occupied territories, should be included in all political arrangements relating to those territories, including self-determination, release of prisoners, right of return, and eventual sovereignty; and be it further
Resolved, That this convention urge the government of the United States to use its diplomatic and economic influence in support of the above and to demonstrate a firm commitment to justice for Palestinians as it does for the security of the State of Israel; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be sent to the President of the United States, the Prime Minister of Israel, the President of the Palestinian Authority and appropriate members of the Congress of the United States.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Philadelphia, 1997 (New York: General Convention, 1998), p. 181.
Resolution Number: 1994-A103
Artificially Neutral
Title: Affirm 1993 Israeli-PLO Declaration of Principles
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 1994 General Convention of the Episcopal Church:
affirms and supports the Israeli-PLO Declaration of Principles signed in September 1993;
urges all parties concerned to do all in their power to support the Palestinian Interim Self-Government Authority, and the elected Council, authorized by the above-mentioned Declaration, and all the other agreed upon principles and undertakings; and
expresses its conviction that a durable, fair and timely resolution of the peace process between the government of Israel and the Palestinian [sic] Liberation Organization requires that the United States adhere to a single standard of justice in its diplomatic efforts to support the peace process and in granting aid to both Israel and Palestine; and
recognizes that such a standard requires the United States to condition aid to the newly autonomous Palestinian Authority on its abandonment of violence as a tactic of struggle and that the Palestinian police make every effort within their power to apprehend violators; and
recognizes that such a standard requires the United States to condition aid and loan guarantees to Israel on its abandonment of violence as a tactic of civilian control and on the release of all Palestinian political prisoners and detainees;
and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the 71st General Convention be requested to send a copy of this Resolution to Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, Chairman Yasser Arafat, the President of the United States, the Secretary of State, Episcopalian and other appropriate Members of Congress, and to the Most Reverend Samir Kafity.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Indianapolis, 1994 (New York: General Convention, 1995), pp. 283-84.
Resolution Number: 1994-B023
Innocuous
Title: Acknowledge Leadership of the Former President and Secretary of State
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred
Final Text:
Resolved, That this 71st General Convention acknowledge with thanksgiving to God the efforts and ministry of former President George Bush and Secretary of State James Baker, both active Episcopalians, for their persistent, effective and dedicated leadership in initiating the peace process which now continues in the Middle East between Israel, the Palestinians and other Arab countries in that region; and be it further
Resolved, That this General Convention send its greeting to these two fellow churchmen.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Indianapolis, 1994 (New York: General Convention, 1995), p. 825.
Resolution Number: 1994-D065
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Recognize Illegality of Israeli Settlements in Gaza and the West Bank
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 71st General Convention of the Episcopal Church recognize that Israeli settlements in the Gaza Strip and the occupied territories of the West Bank and East Jerusalem are illegal under international law and an obstacle to peace, and, therefore, calls upon the United States government:
to withhold funds equivalent to those used by Israel for any settlement activity; and
to make those funds available to Israeli settlers leaving the occupied territories for resettlement in pre-1967 Israel and equally for Palestinians accepting the principles of compensation for their lands and homes in Israel;
and be it further
Resolved, That the General Convention commends the brave leadership of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Chairman Yassir Arafat for their bold steps towards peace.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Indianapolis, 1994 (New York: General Convention, 1995), p. 310.
Resolution Number: 1991-A147
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Support a Two-state Solution for Israel and the Palestinian People
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Substituted and Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church supports the existence of Israel as a sovereign state, the democratic and humanitarian inspired homeland for displaced Jewish people, and calls upon the Government of the United States:
To assist in the creation of a Palestinian State, and,
To assist Israel to secure the human rights of indigenous Arabs within Israel through:
a. ending the violation of civil and human rights and by stopping the brutalities committed against individual, families, and groups which now occur;
b. restricting the use of military force to measures and practices proportionate to the situation and suited to the control of civilian populations, and, to that end, to assure that military personnel and units, before assignment to duty, be given proper training in riot control and the techniques and practices of control of civilian populations;
c. causing the State of Israel to discontinue the use of administrative detention and collective punishment;
d. the permanent reopening of schools, universities, and other educational institutions for the Palestinians in the occupied territories;
e. causing the State of Israel to be even handed and fair in the recognition and enforcement of the rights and interests of the Palestinians with respect to their personal safety, property rights, water rights, and rights of access to commercial markets; and
f. encouraging the opening of candid and patient communication between the representatives of the Palestinians and the State of Israel and between the Palestinian and the Israeli peoples; and
g. reestablishing and safe-guarding the City of Jerusalem as inter-religious municipality in which full respect is accorded the rights and interests of Christians, Jews, and Muslims.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Phoenix, 1991 (New York: General Convention, 1992), p. 794.
Resolution Number: 1991-A148
Title: On the Topic of the Middle East
Legislative Action Taken: Rejected
Final Text:
Resolution died with adjournment. See Legislative History for original text of resolution.
Legislative History
Author: The Standing Commission on Peace
Originating House: House of Bishops
Originating Committee: Committee on National and International Problems
House of Bishops
Original Text of Resolution:
(A148)
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That the 1991 General Convention of the Episcopal Church convey to the President of the United States, to the Secretary of State, and to Episcopalians and other appropriate Members of Congress:
Its deep concern for the peaceful, fair, just and timely resolution of the differences between the Palestinians and the people and government of the State of Israel, and also its concern that there be respect and fair and just treatment of both the Palestinians and the Israelis pending the achievement of such resolution;
Its conviction that in communications and negotiations with the Palestinians and the State of Israel, the United States government should use persuasion and appropriate accompanying pressure:
a. To bring about an end to the violations of civil and human rights and the unnecessary brutalities to individuals, families and groups which are now occurring;
b. To restrict the use of military force to measures and practices proportionate to the situation and suited to the legitimate control of civilian populations, and, to that end, to assure that military personnel and units, before assignment to duty, be given proper training in riot control and the techniques and practices of control of civilian populations;
c. To cause the State of Israel to discontinue the use of administrative detention and collective punishment ("curfew"), except in those instances when it can be demonstrated that such use is essential for the legitimate concerns of national security;
d. To accomplish the reopening of schools, universities, and other educational institutions for the Palestinians in the occupied territories;
e. To cause the State of Israel to be evenhanded and fair in the recognition and enforcement of the rights and interests of the Palestinians with respect to their personal safety, property rights, water rights, and rights of access to commercial markets; and
f. To encourage and facilitate open, candid, and patient communication between the representatives of the Palestinians and the State of Israel and between the Palestinian and the Israeli peoples; and
g. To support the continuation of the City of Jerusalem as an interreligious municipality in which full respect is accorded the rights and interests of Christians, Jews and Muslims.
Proposed Committee Substitute:
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, That this 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church commends the initiatives taken by the United States in pursuing peace in the Middle East that have been recently proposed by the Secretary of State, and this General Convention decries the refusal of nations in the region to demonstrate a willingness to meet and negotiate for peace; and be it further
Resolved, That this General Convention call upon leaders and members of Muslim, Jewish, and Christian traditions to use every means of influence and persuasion to help bring all nations to the peace table immediately, and if finding no peace conference among nations, we call upon the three religious communities to form a shadow peace conference to address the pressing issues, and be if further
Resolved, That this General Convention call upon the United States government to establish a time certain for a regional peace conference, and failing to receive a positive response, to initiate a process of the reduction of military assistance and sales of military equipment to all nations in the Middle East, at the same time seeking the full support of other nations elsewhere in the world in the curtailment of the flow of arms to the Middle East.
Motion carried
Substitute resolution adopted
(Communicated to the House of Deputies in HB Message #176)
Resolution died with adjournment.
Report Reference: Standing Commission on Peace, Reports to the 70th General Convention, 1991, pp. 394-431.
Abstract: The 70th General Convention rejects the resolution calling for a peace conference in the Middle East.
Resolution Number: 1991-A149
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Urge a Full Accounting of the Use of Foreign Aid in the Middle East
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Substituted
Final Text:
Resolved, That this 70th General convention of the Episcopal Church calls on the United States government to render a full accounting of all military assistance and sales of military equipment to all nations in the Middle East, and to develop a plan for reducing the amount of military arms in the entire region; and be it further
Resolved, That this General Convention urges the President of the United Stated and the Members of Congress, during this period of de facto annexation of Palestinian land, to develop a policy which requires the State of Israel to account to the Government of the United States for the use of all aid in whatever form that the United States grants to the State of Israel and its instrumentalities, in full compliance with all sections of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; and be it further
Resolved, That this General Convention requests the President of the United States and the Members of Congress to take appropriate steps to ensure that no assistance provided the State of Israel shall be used to cause the relocation of Palestinian people from their homes, nor for new settlements to be located in the occupied areas of the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem; with further relocations and new settlements to result in the immediate curtailment of aid from the United States.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Phoenix, 1991 (New York: General Convention, 1992), p. 771.
Resolution Number: 1991-A150
Artificially Neutral
Title: Support an Anglican Presence in the Middle East
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Substituted and Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church:
Sends greetings to and express solidarity with all Christians in the Middle East, especially to the members of the Diocese of Jerusalem and to Bishop Samir Kafity, and
Reaffirms the prophetic role of Bishop Samir Kafity, and
Encourages American Episcopalians to journey to Jerusalem on pilgrimages to lend support to the Christian community, and
Calls on the religious and governmental authorities in Jerusalem to hear the alarm of Christian constituents of that city who in the past forty years have gone from being a presence of 24% to 2% of Jerusalem and who fear that their total absence is desired by these authorities, and
Calls the religious and governmental authorities to make a gesture of mutuality by restoring St. John's Hospice to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, and
Urges dioceses of our Church to engage in study and dialogue with respect to Muslim/Christian relations, and
Rejoices in the success of the Jewish/Christian dialogue and the deepening fellowship that had occurred, and
Deplores all expressions of anti-Arab and anti-Jewish prejudice in our culture and among Christians and commit ourselves to continue to combat the prejudice, and
That the Secretary of the 1991 General Convention of the Episcopal Church be requested to send copies of all resolutions adopted by this Convention relating to Palestinian/Israeli resolutions to the President of the United States, to the Secretary of State, to Episcopalians and other appropriate members of Congress, to the Secretary General of the United Nations, to the representative of the Anglican Consultative Council to the United Nations, to the Middle East Council of Churches, to the Most Reverend Samir Kafity, to the mayor of Jerusalem, and to the Prime Minister of Israel.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Phoenix, 1991 (New York: General Convention, 1992), p. 772.
Resolution Number: 1991-B011
Biased against Israel
Title: Urge Awareness of Anglican Primates' Statement on the Middle East
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That this 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church in the United States urge each diocese to make its people aware of the Statement from the Anglican Primates Meeting 11 April 1991, Newcastle, Ireland:
THE MIDDLE EAST
As Primates of the Anglican Communion we:
-- express gratitude to Almighty God for the ceasefire in the Gulf War and for the restoration of Kuwait
-- voice our sadness at the enormous loss of human life in the recent and continuing conflicts and extend our pastoral support to the families of those who have died on all sides of the conflict
-- condemn the massive assault upon the environment and the pollution of water, soil and air which will have incalculable consequences for future generations of people and for the natural ecology
-- call upon the international community to recognize and respond to the tragic suffering of displaced peoples, including Kurdish refugees, and to the Palestinians in the Occupied Territories suffering inhumane containment, curfews and the continued denial of human rights
-- plead for consistency by the United Nations in the implementation of all resolutions with respect to the region as a whole and particularly Palestine/Israel
-- affirm the position expressed in 1988 by the bishops of the Anglican Communion in Lambeth Resolution 24 on Palestine/Israel.
This Conference, saddened by the present suffering in the West Bank and Gaza Strip:
Affirms the importance of the Church in the exercise of its prophetic role by standing on the side of the oppressed in their struggle for justice, and by promoting justice, peace and reconciliation for all peoples in the region.
Affirms the existence of the state of Israel and its right to recognized and secure borders, as well as the civic and human rights of all those who live within its borders.
Affirms the right of the Palestinians to self-determination, including choice of their own representatives and the establishment of their own state.
Supports the convening of an international conference over Palestine/Israel under the auspices of the UN and based on all the UN resolutions in relation to this conflict, to which all parties of the conflict be invited.
Commits itself to continued prayer for Israelis and Palestinians, for Muslim, Jew and Christian, for the achievement of justice, peace and reconciliation for all.
We call upon the United Nations to assume the administration of the West Bank and Gaza Strip from the State of Israel, and to facilitate humane policies for the people of the Occupied Territories until there is a settlement of the Palestinian/Israel issue.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Phoenix, 1991 (New York: General Convention, 1992), p. 318.
Resolution Number: 1991-D008
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Urge a Peaceful Resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Substituted and Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church:
affirms the importance of the Church in the exercise of its prophetic role by standing on the side of the oppressed, including both the Palestinian people and the people of Israel, in their struggle for justice, and by promoting justice, peace and reconciliation for all peoples in the Middle East; and
reaffirms the existence of the State of Israel and its right to secure borders recognized by all nations, as well as the civic and human rights of all those who live within its borders; and
commits itself to continued prayer for Israelis and Palestinians, for Muslims, Jews and Christians, for the achievement of justice, peace and reconciliation for all;
and be it further
Resolved, That this 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church goes on record in support of Secretary of State Baker's efforts to convene a conference to resolve the Palestinian/Israeli conflict in which all parties involved are included; and be it further
Resolved, That this 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church urges the President and the Congress of the United States:
to require the State of Israel to account to the Government of the United States for all aid in whatever form that the United States grants to the States of Israel and its instrumentalities in compliance with all sections of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as far as all sections of the Act are applied to Arab governments in the region; and
to hold in escrow aid to Israel by an amount equal to any expenditures by the Government of Israel to expand, develop or further establish Israeli settlements in the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem and only release the aid from escrow if proof is given that settlements are not being established;
and be it further
Resolved, That the Episcopal Church in the United States urges each diocese to take an active interest in the events taking place in the Middle East through study programs, sponsoring forums and workshops; and be it further
Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be sent to the President, the Secretary of State and all Members of the Congress of the United States.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Phoenix, 1991 (New York: General Convention, 1992), p. 237.
Resolution Number: 1991-D122
Biased against Israel
Title: Distinguish Between Criticism of Israeli Policy and Anti-Jewish Prejudice
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church recognize that a distinction exists between the propriety of legitimate criticism of Israeli governmental policy and action and the impropriety of anti-Jewish prejudice; and be it further
Resolved, That the 70th General Convention of the Episcopal Church deplore all expressions of anti-Jewish prejudice (sometimes referred to by the imprecise word "anti-Semitism"), in whatever form on whatever occasion, and urge its total elimination from the deliberations and affairs of the Episcopal Church, its individual members, its various units.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Phoenix, 1991 (New York: General Convention, 1992), p. 773.
Resolution Number: 1988-D053
Biased against Israel
Title: Affirm Goals of Justice, Peace and Reconciliation for Israelis and Palestinians
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Substituted and Amendeepisd
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 69th General Convention:
a) affirm the importance of the Church in the exercise of its prophetic role by standing on the side of the oppressed in their struggle for justice, and by promoting justice, peace and reconciliation for all peoples in the region;
b) affirm the existence of the State of Israel and its right to recognized and secure borders, as well as the civic and human rights of all those who live within its borders;
c) affirm the right of the Palestinians to self-determination, including choice of their own representatives and the establishment of their own state;
d) support the convening of an international conference over Palestine/Israel under the auspices of the UN and based on all the UN resolutions in relation to this conflict, to which all parties of the conflict be invited; and
e) commit itself to continued prayer for Israelis and Palestinians, for Muslim, Jew and Christian, for the achievement of justice, peace and reconciliation for all.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Detroit, 1988 (New York: General Convention, 1989), p. 293.
Resolution Number: 1988-D119
Biased against Israel
Title: Urge Financial Relief of and Interest in the Diocese of Jerusalem
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 69th General Convention reaffirm this Church's support for our sisters and brothers in the Diocese of Jerusalem, especially in this time of crisis, and strongly urge all dioceses to respond generously to the Special Appeal for the Diocese of Jerusalem by the Presiding Bishop's Fund for World Relief; and be it further
Resolved, That the staff of World Mission in Church and Society assist dioceses in understanding the conflict between the State of Israel and the Occupied Territories and, using existing available resources, encourage dioceses, through prayer, study programs and workshops, to take an active interest in the impact of that conflict on the Diocese of Jerusalem.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Detroit, 1988 (New York: General Convention, 1989), p. 307.
Resolution Number: 1985-B017
Strongly biased against Israel
Title: Oppose Moving the United States Embassy From Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That the 68th General Convention of the Episcopal Church express its opposition to the movement of the United States Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, except within the context of a broad resolution of Middle East problems, with the status of Jerusalem having been determined by negotiation and not by unilateral action by any one community, religion, race or nation.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Anaheim, 1985 (New York: General Convention, 1986), p. 130.
Resolution Number: 1982-B047
Moderately biased pro-Palestinian Arab
Title: Call for Peace in the Middle East
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Amended
Final Text:
Resolved, That this 67th General Convention
Affirms the Camp David Accords as the appropriate vehicle for pursuing a just and lasting peace in the Middle East;
Commends and supports President Reagan for his initiatives to achieve peace in the area, and urges his continuing efforts in this vital task;
Calls upon all parties to the conflict in the Middle East to lay down their arms, and to settle their disputes by direct negotiations and mutual recognition;
Supports the right of Palestinian people to exercise responsibility for their political future, with the proviso that the Palestinians recognize the legitimacy of the State of Israel.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, New Orleans, 1982 (New York: General Convention, 1983), p. C-129.
Resolution Number: 1979-D089
Moderately biased pro-Palestinian Arab
Title: Express Thankfulness for Israeli-Egyptian Peace Treaty
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred As Substituted
Final Text:
Resolved, That this 66th General Convention of the Episcopal Church notes with thankfulness the signing of the 1979 Israeli-Egyptian Peace Treaty, that it affirms the right of Israel to exist as a free State within secure borders, and that it urges continued negotiations leading to an overall settlement and peaceful resolution of the issues and problems in the Middle East; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention expresses support for the opportunity to establish a free and independent Palestinian state which recognizes the State of Israel; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention recognizes the uniqueness of the city of Jerusalem and urges a solution which would guarantee free and secure access to the Holy City by people of all faiths; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention confirms our oneness in Christ with our fellow Christians in the Middle East, as we also affirm that we are engrafted in the vine of Israel; and be it further
Resolved, That this Convention expresses our love, concern and prayers for all persons in the Middle East.
Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Denver, 1979 (New York: General Convention, 1980), p. C-105.