Archbishop prays for Middle East peace in first Easter sermon
Archbishop prays for Middle East peace in first Easter sermon
During her debut Easter message as the Church of England’s leader, Dame Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury, emphasized the need to end “violence and destruction” in the Middle East. The sermon, delivered at Canterbury Cathedral, coincided with the US-Israel conflict with Iran entering its sixth week. She urged all individuals in the region to embrace “peace, justice, and freedom” they have long sought.
Call for Renewed Hope Amid Conflict
As the war intensified, Mullally addressed the congregation, urging them to reflect on the resurrection of Jesus. “This week, our focus has turned to the land where Jesus was crucified and raised from the dead,” she said. “Let us pray for an end to the violence gripping the Middle East and Gulf, and call for hope in the empty tomb.” She also acknowledged personal hardships, encouraging those enduring “illness or grief” to know “God walks with you through the darkness.”
“May our Christian sisters and brothers know and celebrate the hope of the empty tomb,” Mullally added, highlighting the spiritual significance of the season.
Context of the Conflict
The ongoing conflict began on 28 February, following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Iran retaliated with attacks on Israel and Gulf allies, escalating tensions. Israel later targeted Lebanon after Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed group, launched rocket attacks in response to the leader’s assassination. Thousands have been reported killed since the war’s outbreak, underscoring the region’s turmoil.
A Ministry of Transition
Just days prior to her sermon, Mullally had been installed as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury in late March. Reflecting on her journey, she noted her teenage self could “never have imagined the future that lay ahead.” The event, attended by notable figures like the Prince of Wales, marked the symbolic start of her ministry. Her predecessor, Justin Welby, stepped down in 2024 amid criticism over handling an abuse case.
Global Challenges and Unity
Mullally now leads a global Church navigating divisions over topics like sexuality and female leadership. Some traditionalists within the Anglican Communion still oppose women serving as priests. Meanwhile, Archbishop Richard Moth of Westminster, in his first Easter sermon, addressed humanity’s struggles with “confusing and conflicted” times. He linked warfare and injustice to “greed and misguided power,” stressing the need for compassion.
“In our present times, the world is subject to ever-changing demands and attractions,” Moth said. “Humanity is scarred by warfare and injustice, often instigated by greed and power.”
Pope Leo’s Urbi et Orbi Blessing
On the same day, Pope Leo delivered his first Urbi et Orbi Easter blessing, urging leaders to “choose peace” over conflict. Addressing tens of thousands in St Peter’s Square, he emphasized humanity’s responsibility to act against wars and their devastating toll.
