VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 6/4/10)—General Secretary Roy Medley released a statement on Friday, June 4, regarding the conflict in the Middle East. "The deadly confrontation this week between the Israeli military and a flotilla seeking to break the Gaza embargo highlights again the need for prayer for a just and peaceful resolution to the situation between Israel and Palestine," said Medley.

"American Baptists have long been on record in support of the two state solution: one that guarantees the right of both Israel to exist secure and the right of the Palestinians to a homeland and their right to security as well."

Medley continued, "The Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) have said that 'the incident highlights the need for the United States to work for new, constructive Israeli policies toward Gaza that end the blockade and provide for the humanitarian need of those living there without diminishing Israel’s own security.'"

"We are mindful," Medley added, "that this unresolved situation is a driving force in unrest in other parts of the world. Therefore, let us continue to pray and work for a peaceful and just resolution to this conflict."

American Baptist Churches is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with 5,500 local congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.