How do we still sing? (From Gazette Series)

How do we still sing?

SIR - I have just had the privilege of singing in a village carol service: "O little town of Bethlehem" tells of wonderful peace and tranquillity.

The same day I received the latest information from the Palestine Solidarity Movement telling me of the 5,200 Palestinians held without trial by the Israelis including 250 children under 16.

I read of the plight of the 86 farmers of the village of Jayyous who have 3,500 sheep and goats. The Israelis have built their new wall separating the village from the pastures. These farmers have lost their income and also tragically the animals are dying of starvation. What would Jesus the Jew have made of this Israeli horror?

I find it impossible as an Englishman to ignore the legacies of our ghastly imperial arrogance in Palestine. Tragically we are still a nation with a ruthless warlike government although I believe the majority of UK citizens are not warlike. Most are against starting new wars especially crusades led by Christians!

"Above thy deep and dreamless sleep..." How can we honorably sing this when the reality is sleeplessness, crying out in the night and nightmares?

Dr Chris Burns-Cox

Wotton-under-Edge