Global Ministries among Faith Groups Urging Leaders to Deescalate Tension, Pursue Peace in Ukraine

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. In a statement released this week, churches and faith organizations implored political leaders to “do everything in their power to protect human lives and prevent war.” The statement follows:

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 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

Related: WCC urgently appeals for peace for the people of Ukraine (Jan. 25)
The Church of Scotland: “A Prayer for Ukraine” (Jan. 25)
National Council of Churches Appeals for Peace for the People of Ukraine (Jan. 27)