The following resolutions were passed by Mission Council on Saturday January 25 2003, with the request that they be communicated as widely as possible:

The Mission Council of the United Reformed Church, noting the increasing military preparations for an invasion of Iraq and the universal rejection by churches and church leaders in the United States, the United Kingdom and around the world of war as the solution to the threat posed by Saddam Hussein's regime

Expresses its concern that the scale of this military build-up creates a momentum that increases the probability of war
Supports the view that the UN Weapons Inspectors should be allowed to complete their work
Believes that in the "post 9.11' world, United States and United Kingdom-led military action against Iraq will further destabilise the international situation
Urges, therefore, that more be done to effect a peaceful outcome that affirms western respect for the Arab world and a desire to foster just and peaceful relations between all God's peoples
Recognises the considerable stress and worry for the families and friends of military personnel already sent to the region and for those with relatives and friends living in the region
Urges its congregations to seek ways of ministering to those facing such anxiety
Calls upon members of the United Reformed Church to reach out to people of the other Abrahamic (Christian, Jewish, Muslim) faiths and covenant with them to work and pray for peace in Iraq and throughout the Middle East, and for good community relations in the UK, recognising that the journey to such commitment will be costly and painful as difficult and divisive issues are faced and wrestled with before our God who calls us all to live with justice and mercy
Encourages all those who are praying and witnessing for peace, giving thanks for their ministry.

Mission Council resolves that its resolution on the international situation shall be communicated to all churches and councils of the United Reformed Church placed on the United Reformed Church website communicated by letter to the Prime Minister and the US Ambassador in London by the Moderator of General Assembly.