Marking the second anniversary of the 7 October attacks, Rt Rev Rosie Frew, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, said: “On this second anniversary of 7 October 2023, the Church of Scotland joins with all those who continue to mourn those murdered on that day, and endure the pain and uncertainty of loved ones who remain held hostage in Gaza.
“We stand in solidarity, and hold in prayer, all those whose lives were forever changed as they grieve, wait, and hope.
“As followers of Christ, we believe every human life bears the image of God, and so we continue to pray for the protection of all those who remain as hostages, and call for their immediate release.
“We are thankful for the potential of a ceasefire which will relieve the immense suffering that is taking place in Gaza, and we also pray for the situation in the West Bank, where violence has sadly deepened.
“In the shadow of war, the cries for justice and peace grow ever more urgent.
“The path to peace is long and difficult, yet it must be walked.
“On this solemn day of remembrance, we recommit ourselves to the work of justice, peace and reconciliation and to the hope of a future where all peoples of the Holy Land can live in dignity, safety, and peace”.