With the threat of a Russian invasion looming in Ukraine, faith communities are united in their message to Congress and the Biden administration: we must do everything in our power to protect human lives and prevent war.
Quakers are called to “seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14). We understand that peace can be achieved only by peaceful means. That’s why we were proud to partner with the Episcopal Church and interfaith partners in a Jan. 27 statement urging leaders in the United States, Russia, and Ukraine to invest in diplomacy, reject a militaristic response, and act to prevent human suffering.
War is brutal and its grievous consequences stretch on for generations. Only by vigorously pursuing all avenues for peace can we fulfill our sacred duty to respect the equal dignity and worth of every person.
Statement by Faith Groups on the Situation in Ukraine
As people of faith, we are united in our conviction that we must do all we can to achieve and secure peace when there is the threat of conflict. Political leaders must do everything in their power to protect human lives and prevent war.
We urgently call on all parties, including the U.S., to invest in efforts that will prevent violent conflict and to avert actions that will likely lead to grievous and unnecessary human suffering.
We are gravely concerned by Russia’s apparent preparations to conduct a military invasion of, or to otherwise attack or destabilize, Ukraine. We urgently call on all parties, including the U.S., to invest in efforts that will prevent violent conflict and to avert actions that will likely lead to grievous and unnecessary human suffering, long-lasting environmental destruction, and widespread economic harm.
To this end, we reject the threats and intimidation that escalate tensions and the likelihood of war. Rather than relying on militaristic approaches, our leaders must invest in efforts to sustain peace and prevent harm to those who would suffer the most from the devastating and long-term impacts of conflict. Only by vigorously pursuing all avenues for peace can we fulfill our sacred duty to respect the equal dignity and worth of every person.
- American Friends Service Committee
- Church of the Brethren, Office of Peacebuilding and Policy
- Friends Committee on National Legislation
- Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ
- Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns
- National Council of Churches
- Religions for Peace USA
- Sojourners
- The Episcopal Church
- The United Methodist Church – General Board of Church and Society
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- United Church of Christ, Justice and Local Church Ministries