Priests chain themselves to Erica Stanfords office in political stunt
What happened to the power of prayer?
Three Anglican priests have chained themselves to the electorate office of Immigration Minister Erica Stanford in Browns Bay today, demanding New Zealand recognise Palestinian statehood.
The clerics described the action as an act of “Christian witness” and claimed they were standing in solidarity with the people of Gaza. They cited Jesus’s teachings on feeding the hungry and healing the sick as justification for their protest.
Are such theatrics an appropriate role for priests? Traditionally, clergy are expected to lead their congregations in prayer, reflection and pastoral care. Instead, these ministers of the church turned to chains and placards outside a local MP’s office, in a gesture that looked more like political theatre than spiritual leadership.
The Government has made clear it will not recognise Palestinian statehood while Hamas maintains a position of control. Hamas is designated a terrorist organisation in New Zealand, and officials have argued that recognition at this stage would legitimise an extremist group responsible for violent attacks. A total of 1,139 people were killed in Israel by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attacks, and about 200 were taken captive.
There is also an uncomfortable irony in Christian clergy advocating on behalf of a regime that despises other religions. Hamas has a long record of persecuting religious minorities, and Christians in Gaza face imprisonment or execution simply for practising their faith. Critics say it is extraordinary that priests in New Zealand would chain themselves to a door to support recognition of a state under such leadership.
If the priests truly believe in divine power, some ask why they did not first turn to prayer, the traditional tool of the church, rather than chaining themselves to a building. Others suggest that public stunts risk alienating their congregations, who may expect moral guidance rather than partisan activism.
The clergy involved argue they were compelled by conscience. However, the spectacle has raised questions about whether such tactics undermine the seriousness of their message. Calls for peace and justice lose weight when they are delivered as street-corner performance.
At a time when the church is shrinking in influence, you would think its leaders would do better to practise humility, engage in dialogue, and support humanitarian relief - which lets face it, doesn’t really get to the people because Hamas controls it all. Instead, this week’s protest will be remembered less for its plea for statehood and more for the image of priests chained to a door.
