Bishop Silent on Church Vote Over Israel Document, Jewish Leaders Worry About Antisemitism Risk

In a recent development that has sparked concern among Jewish leaders, the Bishop of Norwich, Rt Rev Graham Usher, has chosen not to comment on his support for a contentious vote by the Church of England. The vote in question involves the Church’s commitment to “hear” a document, Kairos II, which describes Israel as a “colonial enterprise based on racism” and accuses it of “genocide.” This decision has been met with criticism from Jewish leaders, who fear it may exacerbate antisemitism.

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis has labeled the vote as “shameful,” and Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, expressed concerns that the document’s “incendiary wording” contradicts the Church’s efforts to combat antisemitism. Despite Bishop Graham’s previous article in April, where he described antisemitism as “virulent,” his support for the motion at the Church of England’s General Synod has drawn scrutiny.

Kairos II, authored by Palestinian Christians, characterizes Israel as a “colonial, settler, and exclusionary entity” and criticizes the Abraham Accords, which are agreements aimed at normalizing diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab countries. The document suggests that Zionists aim to displace, kill, or subjugate Palestinians, a claim that has fueled further debate.

The Synod’s motion, which Bishop Graham supported, calls for non-violent resistance to occupation and emphasizes the importance of interfaith dialogue and understanding the Palestinian situation. It also acknowledges the Church’s historical role in antisemitism and its impact on Palestinians, urging repentance and continued dialogue.

While the motion originally proposed to “receive” the Kairos Palestine documents, the final wording was changed to “hear,” reflecting a nuanced approach. This decision underscores the Church’s ongoing commitment to addressing complex geopolitical and religious issues, while also striving for peace and reconciliation, as encouraged by biblical teachings like Micah 6:8, which calls for justice, mercy, and humility.

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