July 23, 2025  |  Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Dear People of the Episcopal Church in Delaware,

I commend to you the recent letter from our Presiding Bishop, the Most Reverend Sean Rowe, in response to the ongoing and catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His words echo the raw, emotional plea of our Anglican brother, Archbishop Hosam Naoum of the Episcopal Church of Jerusalem and the Middle East, whose video message calls us not only to attention of the daily devastation but to action toward peace. Archbishop Hosam likens the dire situation to “The Hunger Games” — a stark portrayal of suffering, desperation, and injustice — and urges the wider body of Christ to respond. Please take a moment and listen to the archbishop’s message. His is a direct and unfiltered report from Gaza and the region. 

As your bishop, I want to express my full support for Presiding Bishop Rowe’s letter and join his call to prayer, advocacy, and generous giving. Jesus tells us plainly in Mt. 25: “Just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” We cannot look away. 

I urge each congregation in Delaware to lift this crisis in your prayers and to consider how you might respond — whether by learning more, giving to trusted partners, or advocating for peace. Below you will find a link to our Office of Government Relations webpage where you can find resources relating to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Also, in the letter from Presiding Bishop Rowe, he outlines tangible ways that Episcopalians can respond to this urgent call, including prayer, advocacy, and support. 

Let us open our hearts and our hands, and follow Christ into the work of compassion and justice. 

In Christ’s peace,

+Kevin