Anglican Priests Chain Themselves in Protest, Calling for Sanctions on Israel

Wellington clergy take peaceful action in solidarity with Palestine

In a bold act of peaceful protest, five Anglican priests from the Diocese of Wellington, alongside Catholic priest Fr Gerry Burns, chained themselves outside the Johnsonville office of Hon Nicola Willis on Monday morning.

Their vigil calls on the New Zealand Government to implement further sanctions against Israel in response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Venerable Mel McKenzie of St Anne’s Anglican Church in Northland urged the Government to act decisively.

“It’s our hope that the Government will show moral courage and apply the strictest of sanctions upon the Israeli government,” said Mel. “We hear the mood of the New Zealand public that too little is being done to punish Israel for their horrendous actions.”

Mel, a mother of three, expressed deep concern over the suffering of children in the region. “I am confronted by the daily deaths of more children either through bombing, starvation or lack of access to medical facilities. As Kiwis, we want our government to lead by holding up the Gospel’s call to protect the vulnerable.”

Joining Mel in the vigil were Reverend Andy Hickman from Onslow Parish, Venerable Martin Robinson from St David’s Naenae, Reverend Paul Fletcher from St Tom’s Newtown, and Reverend Chris Kirby from St Luke’s Castlecliff.

The priests’ decision to chain themselves symbolised their deep commitment to justice and solidarity with those suffering in Gaza and the West Bank.

The Assistant Bishop of Wellington, the Right Reverend Anashuya Fletcher, publicly endorsed the priests’ actions.

“These courageous priests are following the biblical call to be peacemakers, to care for the poor and stand up for the oppressed,” said Anashuya. “I echo their call on our government to lead with courage and apply all non-violent means necessary to end this catastrophic situation.”

The protest reflects a growing concern among faith communities in Aotearoa New Zealand about the humanitarian crisis in Palestine. By taking their message directly to a minister’s electorate office, the clergy hope to amplify public pressure and encourage political action by those with the ability to effect change at an international level.

The action is organised by Christians for Peace in Palestine who are coordinating events and vigils across the country, urging New Zealanders to stand in solidarity with those affected by the conflict and to advocate for peace through non-violent means.