Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Texas Lutheran starts a new job with EAPPI-US


I am very pleased to announce that I have accepted a new position as the US coordinator for the World Council of Churches' Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI) – www.eappi.org

The job actually began Nov. 1, with a transition process underway. Outgoing coordinator Eric Fistler has been a tremendous asset to the EAPPI and to me.

The half-time job involves recruiting and supporting volunteers who make a commitment to spend three months walking with Palestinians and Israelis in their non-violent actions. Accompaniers (known as EAs) also undertake advocacy efforts to end the occupation. They monitor and report human rights violations and offer protection through non-violent presence. They support acts of non-violent resistance alongside local Christian and Muslim Palestinians and Israeli peace activists.

Since 2002 the program has sent accompaniers from around the world to communities in the West Bank and Jerusalem. I have published a number of reports and newsletters from EAPPI since getting this blog started, and I will keep you informed about this exciting work.

I will continue to share a wide variety of news, especially that which highlights the life and work of the churches in the Holy Land and beyond. Thanks to all my readers for your prayers and encouragement.

I have much to be thankful for - Thanksgiving blessings to all!

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1 comment:

Lloyd Kraus said...

All Wars Are Fought Over Land

Although Nations and People's take sides over Nationality, Religion, Resources, . . . the sides are still fighting over Land. All Wars - Past, Present and Future - are fought over Land.

Iraq
American's are seen as occupiers. As long as American soldiers are in Iraq, there will be Terrorism against American's.

Afghanistan
As long as American Soldiers are in Afghanistan they will be seen as occupiers. When American soldiers completely leave Afghanistan there can be a chance for Peace.

Israel
Palestinian's are fighting over Land, just as the Israeli's are fighting over Land. Palestine should be given control over the West Bank and some control over Jerusalem. A Land Solution is the only Peaceful Solution. (I would recommend making the Israeli's currently living within the West Bank become Jewish-Palestinian Citizens - with Dual Citizenship allowed; and a Democratic Election for the Mayor of Jerusalem.)

Terrorism
What are the Terrorists fighting over...Land. America should withdraw their military bases and soldiers in Saudi Arabia (home to Mecca and Medina); Iraq and Afghanistan; and make peace between Israel and the Palestinians. Only by understanding how War and Land are interwoven can one figure out Peaceful Solutions.

LloydKraus@gmail.com 818-272-7787