Bishop of Norwich Supports Motion to Engage with Document Condemned by Chief Rabbi

Bishop Graham Usher of Norwich, who has previously warned of the “virulent” nature of antisemitism, voted in favor of a motion at the Church of England General Synod to “engage with” a document titled Kairos II. The document, compiled by Palestinian Christians, describes Israel as a “colonial enterprise based on racism” and accuses it of “genocidal war on Gaza.” This decision has drawn sharp criticism from Jewish leaders, including Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, who called the vote “shameful.”

Mirvis expressed disappointment that the Church of England General Synod recommended engagement with Kairos II, stating it is a “sad day for Jewish-Christian relations.” He emphasized that the document contains “falsehoods” and challenges the very existence of Israel, undermining efforts to foster dialogue and peace in the region. Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, echoed these concerns, noting that while Kairos Palestine may stem from “genuine pain,” the document’s “distortions” risk deepening divisions rather than resolving conflict.

The motion to “hear” Kairos II was supported by 25 bishops, including Bishop Usher, with five abstentions. During the debate in York, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, affirmed the importance of listening to Palestinian Christians, though she clarified that engagement did not equate to agreement with all the document’s claims. She acknowledged the need to consider the “lived experiences” of Palestinian Christians without endorsing the document’s extreme rhetoric.

Supporters of the motion argued that engaging with Kairos II was essential to understanding the perspectives of Palestinian Christians, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict. However, critics warned that the document’s language—such as its reference to “displacement, death or submission” as the Zionist plan—could be interpreted as promoting anti-Israel sentiment. This has raised concerns about the potential for the Church of England to inadvertently legitimize harmful narratives.

The controversy highlights the complex interplay between religious institutions and political issues in the Middle East. While the Church of England seeks to address antisemitism, some argue that the motion risks normalizing rhetoric that could be seen as antisemitic. The debate underscores the challenge of balancing empathy for Palestinian suffering with the need to uphold the legitimacy of Israel and the Jewish people.

In the spirit of Micah 6:8, which calls for acting with justice, mercy, and humility, the Church of England faces a critical moment in its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Engaging with diverse voices is important, but it must be done with care to avoid perpetuating falsehoods that could harm Jewish communities and undermine the pursuit of peace.

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