A Statement Regarding the Proposed War Against Iraq

The Session of Riviera Presbyterian Church, expresses our opposition to the proposed pre-emptive strike invasion
of Iraq by the United States. In making this statement, we add our voices to those of the National Council of Churches,
the Florida Council of Churches, as well as those of many other Christian organizations. In so doing, we are informed
by the historic principles of Just War Theory, whose guidance has informed the Presbyterian Church war and peace policies
for generations. We urge the president to uphold our country's values by working closely with the community of nations,
to seek a more peaceable solution. It is not at all clear that Iraq poses an immediate threat to the U.S. or her neighbors
in the Middle East; and there is serious question about the strength and viability of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction.
A military invasion will cause the deaths of thousands of non-combatants and innocents already suffering under sanctions,
and could escalate regional and global conflicts.

There are alternatives to war that would increase security in the Middle East and for the US;
And instead of promoting a military invasion we advocate that the U.S. government.

*engage in respectful face to face dialogue as a solution to conflict.

*work cooperatively with the United Nations rather than acting unilaterally

*encourage medical, educational, athletic and artisan exchanges with Iraq

*reduce U.S. dependence on fossil fuels and encourage investment and development of renewable energy sources.

As followers of the Prince of Peace, we want no bombing carried out in our name.

The Peacemaking Task Force of Linking Heart and Hands
Riviera Presbyterian Church Miami, FL
9/25/02
Peace, Becky Gibbs