ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson's 
Statement on Iraq Situation

August 30, 2002

In recent days, leaders of the United States government have talked openly about the possibility of a pre-emptive strike against the government of Iraq and its leader, Saddam Hussein.

As presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), I am deeply concerned about any such action. In the 1995 ELCA social statement, "For Peace in God's World," we said that, as Christians, "the love of our neighbor obligates us to act to prevent wars and seek alternatives to them." This is a time to stop the use of hostile rhetoric and verbal threats, and to focus again on diplomacy.

While we are fully aware of the potential threat posed by the government of Iraq and its leader, I believe it is wrong for the United States to seek to overthrow the regime of Saddam Hussein with military action. Morally, I oppose it because I know a war with Iraq will have great consequences for the people of Iraq, who have already suffered through years of war and economic sanctions. I do not believe such a war can be justified under the historic principles of "just war." Further, I believe it is detrimental to U.S. interests to take unilateral military action against Iraq when there is already strong international support for weapons inspections, and when it is apparent that most other world governments oppose military action. I also believe that U.S. military action at this time will further destabilize the region.

The United States should continue its cooperation with international efforts through the United Nations to control Iraq's weapons of mass destruction. The ELCA has consistently called for diplomatic efforts toward a cease-fire and a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. I would encourage the U.S. government to formulate its response to Iraq toward a similar end.

As the attention of this nation increasingly focuses on the anniversary of Sept. 11, we are reminded of the devastating impact of war. So, we continue to reject violent action and are renewed in our resolve to find peaceful, nonviolent solutions. I call upon members of our congregations to be fervent in prayer, engaged in conversation with one another and with our leaders. The ELCA encourages the participation by all people of faith in the affairs of government. Our church has developed and is expanding a practice of engaging in moral deliberation on difficult social issues. Now is a time for such deliberation. During these discussions it is important for all of us to listen to and respect the views of everyone. We must oppose racist and enemy images that dehumanize, deny the love of God for all people and do not help in resolving conflict.

In the final analysis, we must stand unequivocally for peace. We extend our prayers for peace to all who must decide and to all who are affected, here, in the Persian Gulf region and around the world. We remember our President and his administration, members of Congress, military personnel and their families, and all who may be affected during this critical time in global history.

As people of faith, we are reminded of these words: "Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding." (Romans 14:19)

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America