Doing Things That Make For Peace

At least that is the intent of the World Council of Churches.

"The World Council of Churches has urged its 347 member denominations to give 'serious consideration' to pulling investments out of Israel in protest of what it sees as mistreatment of Palestinians.

In calling for church-sponsored 'economic pressure,' the WCC on Monday (Feb. 21) gave strong support for last year's controversial decision by the Presbyterian Church (USA) to seek 'phased selective divestment' from Israel.

'This (Presbyterian) action is commendable in both method and manner, uses criteria rooted in faith and calls members to do the things that make for peace,' the WCC's 150-member Central Committee said in its resolution.

The Geneva-based WCC is the major ecumenical voice for the world's mainline Protestant, Anglican and Orthodox churches. It does not include the Roman Catholic Church or most evangelical or Pentecostal churches. While the WCC statement is significant, it is not binding on member churches.

The WCC said its concern was focused on companies that assist Israel in demolishing Palestinian homes, constructing settlements and erecting a controversial 'dividing wall' within the Palestinian territories."

It's a little un-nerving to keep seeing the Roman Catholic Church lumped in with evangelicals and Pentacostals. But, that's right, I'm an ex-Catholic now!