I am in deep shock upon hearing the news of the killing of innocent people in the Lebanon at a United Nations shelter in this latest surge of terror by Israel.

Murder is murder, and the targeting and slaughter of innocent people of any age is contrary to all that we as Anglican Christians hold dear, especially as we are just days into our celebration of the victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death in this Eastertide.

Killing the innocent, whether it be by the madness of an individual in Scotland or a nation such as Israel, will never win battles for a cause. My heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with all those killed or injured in this ruthless attack today. May the people of Lebanon know that this act has pierced the heart of all people of goodwill everywhere.

To the people of the Episcopal Church in Lebanon I bring the assurance of the strongest support of your brothers and sisters in the Church around the globe. May Christ's message of love transform the hate and death of this day. In the spirit of decency and world peace I call on all people of goodwill to denounce and end the violence perpetrated today.

The Revd Canon John L. Peterson
Secretary General
The Anglican Communion