Newsletter: Vol. 5. Iss. 3
10 August 2004
Tributes to Michael Prior
“Michael was the epitome of the scholar-activist...His scholarship
and “moral critique” were outstanding and prophetic. His faith
placed an emphasis on the humanity and equality of all people. For me the
loss of Michael is devastating. His passing will also sadden scores of his
friends around the globe.”
Dr. Nur Masalha, St. Mary’s College, London.
“It is very sad and shocking to learn about the sudden death of our
colleague and peacemaker, the late Rev. Michael Prior. We lost a great objective
biblical scholar and a dedicated friend of the forgotten Palestinians. May
his soul rest now in the peace of Christ.”
Samir Kafity, Bishop of Jerusalem (ret.), San Diego
“Michael's passion for justice was unflinching and unshakable. He was
compelling and provocative in his writings. He sought to expose the lies and
deceptions that underlie the Zionist project and that led to the conquest
of Palestine. He is 'still speaking' through his books, lectures, and various
publications... His strong prophetic message will reverberate until justice
for the Palestinians is done and peace and reconciliation are achieved.”
The Rev. Dr. Naim Ateek, Jerusalem
“Many people who have suffered continuing injustice have lost a stalwart
champion and friend of high quality.”
Dr. Colin Morton, Edinburgh
“He was a very special dear person, with a good sense of humour, a
lovely singing voice, a wonderful smiling face that brought light whenever
he came into a room. He had the zest for life. He was a wonderful writer and
a great supporter for the just cause of the Palestinians.”
Saida Nusseibeh, Jerusalem
“We are grateful for every good thing, for every smile of hope that
he generated on the faces of deprived people. I am confident that he understood
very well the statement of the Lord Jesus when he said: ‘Everything
you do to one of these little ones, you do it to me.’ This is where
his commitment to the Palestinian cause came from.”
Father Elias Chacour, Galilee
“The Palestinians, particularly, will miss him a great deal. He stood
by their rights on three counts: as oppressed human beings, as Palestinians
who have the right but not the might, and as natural natives of the Holy Land
whom the Bible loves, not shuns. He will be remembered long in the minds and
the hearts of all those who seek peace with justice.''
Dr. Salman Abu Sitta, Palestine Land Society, Jerusalem
