We have felt paralyzed as the reports poured in from Gaza this week. I am pleased to report that the Metropolitan Washington, D.C., Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has pledged a gift of $700 for support of emergency aid to the people of Gaza.
ELCA folks: Is this a model you and your synod can use? This gift comes through the Metro DC Synod's Global Mission Committee, directed to the Middle East Council of Churches in Gaza City.
There are many appeals for funding coming from Israeli and Jewish American groups. For ELCA Lutherans, the Middle East Council of Churches is our established ecumenical partner in the region. Please give it some thought.
Constantine S. Dabbagh, Executive Secretary, wrote to Pastor Phil Anderson of Washington, D.C., "I really appreciate keeping us in your thoughts and for your support in response to our calls to end the severe siege on Gaza Strip in particular and the Palestinians in general caused by the continued occupation of over 40 years which must END when all forms of resistance will have to END as well and a just peace would prevail to enable us on both sides live in good neighbourhood on equal footings." He said, "I ... appeal to you and the Church to exert your efforts towards the realization of a just peace in the country of the Prince of Peace in ending the Israeli occupation. Please relay our gratitude to all those involved."
Nothing further is coordinated at this point. If you have a question, direct it to me for the time being. Use the spot on this blog provided for comments.
To receive bulletins from Ann Hafften, go to "A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Middle East Peace" - http://voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
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