Cornerstone, the newletter of Sabeel, dedicated its Spring 2010 edition to the Kairos Palestine theme: "A Word of Faith, Hope and Love from the Heart of Palestinian Suffering."
Here's a link to the newsletter in pdf form: http://www.fosna.org/files/fosna/events/CornerstoneIssue56.pdf
I want to provide in its entirety the cover article by the Rev. Naim Ateek, founder of Sabeel. This post is longer that my usual bulletins in order to give you Ateek's article, since I can't link directly to his text.
The Israeli Occupation and Theological Thinking
by Naim Ateek
The political and religious background
The conflict over Palestine can be described as a Greek tragedy composed of two Acts. The first Act happened in 1948 when over three quarters of the land was lost and over 750,000 Palestinians (Muslim and Christian) were ethnically cleansed. In fact, 60% of the Christian community was displaced. They were scattered throughout the Middle East and to the different corners of the globe. The second Act took place in 1967 when the rest of Palestine was occupied by the Israeli army and several hundred thousand Palestinians were dislocated (both Muslim and Christian).
By the time the second Act was over the catastrophe of Palestine had become complete.
In this article I am focusing briefly on the effect of the Israeli occupation on the Christian community and the response of Palestinian Christians. The loss of Palestine and the dispersion of the Palestinian Christian community throughout the world created a physical and a spiritual tragedy. In fact the spiritual impact has been no less traumatic than the physical uprooting of the Palestinians. For Muslims and Christians, the loss of Palestine in 1948 was the result of the interplay of world politics among the western powers, the victorious allies of WW2. Although by then Zionism had been in existence for over 50 years and the British Government was already conditioned and influenced by the ideology of Zionism, it was the impact of the holocaust that facilitated and accelerated the creation of the “Jewish” state.
The religious background and dilemma
From the perspective of most Palestinians who were totally unaware of some western Christian thinking, the loss of Palestine seemed an immoral and unjust act that was inspired and guided by a colonial spirit and western political interests. At the same time, the perspective of some western fundamentalist Christians regarding what ensued was believed to be a divine act inspired and guided by God. For these Christians, the creation of Israel was a fulfillment of biblical prophecy. God was active through their political leaders to bring into fruition his purposes for the Jewish people in order to prepare for the Second Coming of Christ and the End of the world. Put sarcastically, such a momentous event was of greater significance to God than worrying about the rights and interests of 1.3 million Palestinians who were the indigenous people of the land.
I must emphasize that most Palestinians did not have the vaguest idea about any religious significance of the Jewish return. Some might have been rudimentarily aware of the suffering of European Jews under the Nazis, but such knowledge had no relevance to their everyday life. The simple logic for the average Palestinian stated that British colonialism was being replaced by a Jewish form of colonialism. From one angle, there was nothing new in all of this. After all, Palestine has been occupied and governed by foreign powers for thousands of years. It was not directly related to religion. It simply had to do with politics, military power, and political interest.
As for Palestinian Christians with their simple honest faith, they continued to trust God and to pray for God’s mercy and protection. They prayed for justice that would allow them to return to their homes and businesses. They simply waited on God in hope. Others, especially younger men, wanted to do something about it. They joined resistance groups that were anxious to reverse the injustice and retrieve Palestine from its captors.
For those Christians who knew their Bible well, it was the most confusing time. They were shocked at what happened. Religious and theological questions proliferated. These were the recurring old questions that have been repeated millions of times by oppressed people throughout the centuries. The new situation in Palestine, now largely Israel, raised questions and demanded answers. In fact it demanded a new theology, because the old theology for Palestinian Christians did not work anymore. In light of the establishment of the new state, the word “Israel” itself needed a new definition. Is the new Israel an extension of biblical Israel? Is the new state really the fulfillment
of biblical prophecy? Does the Bible have anything to say about what was happening in the country? Where was God in all of this? Did God condone what happened? How can one reconcile what was happening with the justice and goodness of God? Many questions were asked but the answers were few and unsatisfying.
After the 1967 occupation of the rest of Palestine, some of these logical questions were compounded. As the Israeli army clamped down with an iron fist and as the occupation became more entrenched, the confiscation of Palestinian land spread, the illegal settlements multiplied, the settlers became unruly and fierce, the oppression of the Palestinians became noticeably clear, the situation became helpless and desperate, and the international community including the United States was unable to pressure the Israeli government to respect and implement international law. Again the questions were plentiful.
How does God see the oppression of the Palestinians? Since religion has been hijacked by the extremists, what can one do? Are we witnessing not only the corruption of religious faith, but perhaps the end of religious faith as we know it? And what about Christian Zionism that seems to be totally blind to what the government of Israel and its settler population are doing? Have they too become totally absorbed by an Old Testament war-ethic that has lost the spirit, love, and peace which Jesus Christ stood for?
The voice of the church during most of this period was faint. Indeed, there were individual voices against the injustice and the oppression but the collective voice was weak. Onenotices that most of the churches ofthe land seemed to be satisfied with thecelebration of their liturgies and masseson Sundays. However, the sermons that were preached, most of the time, had no relevance to people’s daily life. The Bible studies that took place, generally, emphasized the private spiritual faith of the individual but there was seldom any discussion about issues of justice and peace. There was no word about what it meant to be a peacemaker today, or what the church could do to resist the violence of the occupation and take a stronger stand against the injustice. Indeed, the church’s rituals and ceremonies continue as usual but is the prophetic word missing? Have we neglected the “weightier matters of the law” as Jesus criticized the religious leaders of his day, “justice and mercy and faith?”
The years have been rolling by, the occupation is more entrenched, and the church is hiding behind its liturgy and remains lethargically silent. The above analysis has described the church’s situation for most of the previous years. It is, however, important to state that since the first intifada three important developments have taken place within the Christian community of the land:
FIRST:
The rise of Palestinian liberation theology. This phenomenon took on different shapes. Palestinian clergy from Israel and the West Bank -- Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant -- began to articulate contextual theologies that addressed the political, social, and religious situation in the country from their position of faith. These theologians emphasized the justice of God as well as God’s inclusive love for all people. They condemned the Israeli occupation and the oppression of the Palestinian people. They condemned both the violence of the occupation as well as the violence of extremist Palestinian groups. At the same time, they emphasized the importance of nonviolence in resisting the illegal occupation.
Through their books and publications, these theologians have been able to influence the thinking and theology of many people in the world regarding the predicament of the Palestinians. Moreover, through their exegeses of biblical texts from both the Old as well as the New Testament, they have been able to critique the exclusive ideology and theology of the government of Israel and its religious settler population as well as that of Christian Zionism.
These theologians continue to lift up a vision of peace and reconciliation that is based on a faith in the God who loves all people equally and who wills that all the people of the land live together in peace and harmony.
SECOND:
There was a voice for peace and justice that was heard intermittently in the country that came from a few bishops. It was not, however, the concerted voice of all the patriarchs and bishops. Neither the Christians in the land nor the Israeli government heard a concerted, loud, and clear voice about the oppression of the Palestinians and the need to stop it. For various reasons, rightly or wrongly, the church leaders failed to speak unanimously against the injustice and the oppression of the Palestinians. When they spoke, it was never candid or forthright.
THIRD:
Recently, another voice is being heard from the Christian community of the land. It is the voice of the Kairos Palestine Document. In the midst of the oppressive situation, the Christian community was able to produce a document boldly called, “A Moment of Truth.” It is a document that speaks primarily to the Christian community of the land. It also speaks to Christians and churches abroad. At the same time, it addresses people of other faiths as well as the political situation in the country and more specifically the Israeli government. The document considers the occupation a sin and calls for the use of nonviolent methods to resist it. In fact, this issue of Cornerstone is intended to introduce people to this new important document.
One of the significances of this document is its ecumenical nature since those who worked on it belonged in their church membership to the various churches of the land. So it is a Palestinian Christian voice that seeks to speak truth to power and to witness to the possibility of peace with justice.
Conclusion
Looking back at the last 62 years since the creation of the state of Israel one can say that the Christian community was slow to address the pertinent questions that had arisen from the aftershock of the loss of Palestine. But many of us are thankful to God that in spite of the sluggish beginning, the faith and resilience of the Christians have prompted them to raise their voice and to bear an important testimony before the whole world. Through this document they lift the banner of peace and reconciliation, and willingly accept Christ’s call to be peacemakers and commit themselves to witness to the love and justice of God.
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Find the full edition of Cornerstone at this link:
http://www.fosna.org/files/fosna/events/CornerstoneIssue56.pdf
Other articles include Theology and the Unfolding Tragedy of the Palestinians, by Mary Grey, and Reflections on the Palestinian Kairos Document, by Patriarch Emeritus Michel Sabbah.
Sabeel is the Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center in Jerusalem: http://www.sabeel.org
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Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Creative Resistance to the Occupation and the Occupiers
Thanks to Kimmy Meinecke, an American accompanier in Bethlehem through EAPPI [www.eappi-us.org], for this inspiring post. You can read more of Kimmy's reflections at her blog, "Peace, Salaam, Shalom" - http://peacesalaamshalom.blogspot.com/
Creative Resistance to the Occupation and the Occupiers
http://peacesalaamshalom.blogspot.com/2010/05/creative-resistance-to-occupation-and.html
Near Rachel's Tomb in Bethlehem (and therefore, near the Wall), the Sumud story house, run by Pax Christi International, gathers together Palestinian women and children for stories, conversation, encouragement, spiritual growth and laughter. Ranja, the manager and host of the house, welcomes you into the main room which is decorated as though it were the inside of a traditional bedouin tent.
Lining the tent room are sign boards with stories of creative resistance to the occupation of Palestine and to the occupiers from Israel. Here is one of those stories:
As happened more than once during the time of the (first) Intifada, Israeli soldiers were beating up a man in a crowded street. From all sides people rushed to the scene. Suddenly a woman with a baby came forward to the man and shouted: “Why is it always you who makes problems and goes to demonstrations! I am fed up! Take this baby of yours! I don’t want to see you ever again.” She laid the baby in the hands of the man, and ran away. The soldiers left the scene in confusion. When quiet came, the man returned the baby to the woman. They had never seen each other before. Described by Mounir Fasheh (1998).
You are invited to follow this link to read other stories from Sumud story house: http://www.aeicenter.org/sumud/stories_from_Palestine/Moral_stories.htm
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I like this story from the same site:
Tax Revolt in Beit Sahour
During the Intifada the inhabitants of Beit Sahour refused to pay taxes to the occupation authorities. They did not want to help the occupation financially while not receiving adequate services. “No taxation without representation” was their slogan. In many cases the army entered the houses to take away the belongings of those who refused to pay. One woman saw all her furniture and household equipments carried away. At last she stood alone in the house. When the room was almost empty and the soldiers on the verge of leaving, she called them back: “Please don’t go away. You forgot something. Take my curtains too!”
See: Mitri Raheb, I Am a Palestinian Christian , Augsburg Fortress Publishers 1995 - http://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/item.jsp?isbn=9780800626631
For more about the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel, a project of the World Council of Churches, see this link: http://www.eappi.org/
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Creative Resistance to the Occupation and the Occupiers
http://peacesalaamshalom.blogspot.com/2010/05/creative-resistance-to-occupation-and.html
Near Rachel's Tomb in Bethlehem (and therefore, near the Wall), the Sumud story house, run by Pax Christi International, gathers together Palestinian women and children for stories, conversation, encouragement, spiritual growth and laughter. Ranja, the manager and host of the house, welcomes you into the main room which is decorated as though it were the inside of a traditional bedouin tent.
Lining the tent room are sign boards with stories of creative resistance to the occupation of Palestine and to the occupiers from Israel. Here is one of those stories:
As happened more than once during the time of the (first) Intifada, Israeli soldiers were beating up a man in a crowded street. From all sides people rushed to the scene. Suddenly a woman with a baby came forward to the man and shouted: “Why is it always you who makes problems and goes to demonstrations! I am fed up! Take this baby of yours! I don’t want to see you ever again.” She laid the baby in the hands of the man, and ran away. The soldiers left the scene in confusion. When quiet came, the man returned the baby to the woman. They had never seen each other before. Described by Mounir Fasheh (1998).
You are invited to follow this link to read other stories from Sumud story house: http://www.aeicenter.org/sumud/stories_from_Palestine/Moral_stories.htm
-- --
I like this story from the same site:
Tax Revolt in Beit Sahour
During the Intifada the inhabitants of Beit Sahour refused to pay taxes to the occupation authorities. They did not want to help the occupation financially while not receiving adequate services. “No taxation without representation” was their slogan. In many cases the army entered the houses to take away the belongings of those who refused to pay. One woman saw all her furniture and household equipments carried away. At last she stood alone in the house. When the room was almost empty and the soldiers on the verge of leaving, she called them back: “Please don’t go away. You forgot something. Take my curtains too!”
See: Mitri Raheb, I Am a Palestinian Christian , Augsburg Fortress Publishers 1995 - http://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/item.jsp?isbn=9780800626631
For more about the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel, a project of the World Council of Churches, see this link: http://www.eappi.org/
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Friday, June 11, 2010
Sabeel urges, Take a stand for justice in Gaza
Friends of Sabeel-North America has issued a news release regarding the Sabeel statement on the Gaza blockade. Find the news release and the entire statement at Religion News Service: http://www.religionnews.com/index.php?/pressreleases/sabeel_urges_take_a_stand_for_justice_in_gaza/
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Friends of Sabeel—North America
friends@fosna.org
SABEEL URGES, TAKE A STAND FOR JUSTICE IN GAZA
Sabeel, the Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center in Jerusalem, called upon ordinary people to "take a stand for justice" when political and religious leaders fail to do so. Sabeel's June 3, 2010, statement was issued after Israel's commando attack on the relief flotilla that intended to pass through Israel's blockade of Gaza. "We believe the dawn of justice is near," the statement said.
"Western government leaders are clearly unwilling to implement the requirements of international law and give the Palestinians their just rights. The mantle is now on the shoulders of grassroots people who, increasingly, the world over, are pushing for a nonviolent solution to the conflict over Palestine," said Sabeel's statement, "Gaza—The Conscience of the World."
Sabeel is an ecumenical grassroots liberation theology movement among Palestinian Christians. Inspired by the life and teaching of Jesus Christ, this liberation theology seeks to deepen the faith of Palestinian Christians, to promote unity among them toward social action. Sabeel, founded by the Rev. Naim Ateek, strives to develop a spirituality based on love, justice, peace, nonviolence, liberation and reconciliation for the different national and faith communities.
"Palestine has become the litmus test for truth and justice and Gaza has become the conscience of the world," the Sabeel statement said. "The freedom flotilla has shamed heads of state and church leaders in its determination to break the unjust and oppressive siege of the Gaza Strip. In world public opinion, Israel is becoming a pariah; its lies and deceptions are increasingly exposed and threadbare."
Sabeel quotes both Jesus and Isaiah in its Gaza statement. "Jesus said (Mark 9:28), 'such an evil spirit cannot be cast out except with prayer and with fasting.' We will continue to pray and fast in order to drive out the evil spirit of occupation and oppression," it said
"The great prophet Isaiah cried out that the fast God chooses, is '...to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?' (Isaiah 58:6) This is what we have been witnessing through the challenge of the flotilla. We believe that the spirit of God is working through true peace activists, who practice their prayers in direct nonviolent actions for peace and whose fast is the doing of justice," Sabeel said.
Sabeel urged "men and women—young and old, religious and secular—to use every nonviolent means available to end the siege of Gaza, remove the yoke of occupation and work for the freedom and liberation of Palestine and all its people."
[The complete statement is at the website of Friends of Sabeel-North America: http://www.fosna.org/content/sabeel-statement-gaza-conscience-world ]
Contact:Sister Elaine Kelley
Friends of Sabeel—North America
PO Box 9186Portland, OR 97207
(503) 653-6625; friends@fosna.org
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Bishop Younan and other Jerusalem leaders: religion must have 'prophetic' role
This article from Ecumenical News International
Faith leaders in Jerusalem say religion must have 'prophetic' role
I am especially pleased with Bishop Munib Younan's comment on peace education. I am not sure how a meeting on religious leadership could have failed to consider the KAIROS Palestine document, issued by Christian leaders last winter. [http://www.kairospalestine.ps/] - Ann
Faith leaders in Jerusalem say religion must have 'prophetic' role
by Judith Sudilovsky
Jerusalem (ENI).
http://www.eni.ch/featured/article.php?id=4147
Religion must take on a more positive role in peacemaking efforts in the Middle East, especially in light of the deteriorating situation there, faith leaders have said.
"Religion must be part of the solution," said Jerusalem Lutheran Bishop Munib Younan at a 2 June meeting sponsored by the Israel/Palestine Center for Research and Information.
Instead of allowing itself to be misused by Jewish, Christian and Muslim extremist groups, religion must be prophetic, a catalyst of reconciliation, and offer peace education, said Younan, who is bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.
The meeting was organized before the latest tensions in the region caused after Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla of ships en route for Gaza. Nine people died in the incident.
Younan warned religious leaders against becoming "mini-politicians", and stressed the need to be critical of one's own political leaders.
"Are we ready as religious leaders to do that? That is the challenge," he said.
"Religion is already in politics," said Younan. "When religion tries to interfere in politics, then it becomes a difficult part of the problem rather than a solution. It becomes dangerous when religion is interpreted as an agenda, and made into scenarios of a holy book."
He added that religious leaders must bring their followers back to the basic tenets of religion: "To love God and to love your neighbour."
At the same time, "religion must speak truth to power, and promote justice whenever faced with injustice," said the bishop.
Others at the meeting included Rabbi Michael Melchior, a former member of the Knesset, the Israeli parliament; Mohammed S. Dajani, the founding director of the Wasatia Islamic Movement Palestine; and Deborah Weissman, president of the International Council of Christians and Jews.
"We must strive to employ within each of our cultures those aspects [of our religious faiths] which promote openness," said Weissman, noting that there is a clash within religions between the forces of extremism and those of moderation and tolerance.
Praising the late Pope John Paul II's apology for past persecution of the Jews, Bishop Younan said Israeli and Palestinian political and religious leaders must also stand up and make confessions about their past actions.
"If we use religion to say 'Sorry', there can be new life but if we use the Bible to deny that, religion becomes counterproductive," said Younan, who is a vice-president of the Geneva-based Lutheran World Federation. "We must have religious, prophetic change to ground us to say we are sorry. Then, we are ready for a new beginning."
Younan described peace education as crucial if religion is to play a role and help instil values of genuine tolerance in children and young people. "Tolerance is not simply the absence of hatred but ... [the creation] of shared hope and values for the future," he said.
The Israel/Palestine Center for Research and Information - http://www.ipcri.org/ - that organized the meeting describes itself as a joint institution of Israelis and Palestinians dedicated to the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on the basis of a "two states for two peoples" solution. It also says it is, "the only joint Israeli-Palestinian public policy think-tank in the world".
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com
Faith leaders in Jerusalem say religion must have 'prophetic' role
I am especially pleased with Bishop Munib Younan's comment on peace education. I am not sure how a meeting on religious leadership could have failed to consider the KAIROS Palestine document, issued by Christian leaders last winter. [http://www.kairospalestine.ps/] - Ann
Faith leaders in Jerusalem say religion must have 'prophetic' role
by Judith Sudilovsky
Jerusalem (ENI).
http://www.eni.ch/featured/article.php?id=4147
Religion must take on a more positive role in peacemaking efforts in the Middle East, especially in light of the deteriorating situation there, faith leaders have said.
"Religion must be part of the solution," said Jerusalem Lutheran Bishop Munib Younan at a 2 June meeting sponsored by the Israel/Palestine Center for Research and Information.
Instead of allowing itself to be misused by Jewish, Christian and Muslim extremist groups, religion must be prophetic, a catalyst of reconciliation, and offer peace education, said Younan, who is bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.
The meeting was organized before the latest tensions in the region caused after Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla of ships en route for Gaza. Nine people died in the incident.
Younan warned religious leaders against becoming "mini-politicians", and stressed the need to be critical of one's own political leaders.
"Are we ready as religious leaders to do that? That is the challenge," he said.
"Religion is already in politics," said Younan. "When religion tries to interfere in politics, then it becomes a difficult part of the problem rather than a solution. It becomes dangerous when religion is interpreted as an agenda, and made into scenarios of a holy book."
He added that religious leaders must bring their followers back to the basic tenets of religion: "To love God and to love your neighbour."
At the same time, "religion must speak truth to power, and promote justice whenever faced with injustice," said the bishop.
Others at the meeting included Rabbi Michael Melchior, a former member of the Knesset, the Israeli parliament; Mohammed S. Dajani, the founding director of the Wasatia Islamic Movement Palestine; and Deborah Weissman, president of the International Council of Christians and Jews.
"We must strive to employ within each of our cultures those aspects [of our religious faiths] which promote openness," said Weissman, noting that there is a clash within religions between the forces of extremism and those of moderation and tolerance.
Praising the late Pope John Paul II's apology for past persecution of the Jews, Bishop Younan said Israeli and Palestinian political and religious leaders must also stand up and make confessions about their past actions.
"If we use religion to say 'Sorry', there can be new life but if we use the Bible to deny that, religion becomes counterproductive," said Younan, who is a vice-president of the Geneva-based Lutheran World Federation. "We must have religious, prophetic change to ground us to say we are sorry. Then, we are ready for a new beginning."
Younan described peace education as crucial if religion is to play a role and help instil values of genuine tolerance in children and young people. "Tolerance is not simply the absence of hatred but ... [the creation] of shared hope and values for the future," he said.
The Israel/Palestine Center for Research and Information - http://www.ipcri.org/ - that organized the meeting describes itself as a joint institution of Israelis and Palestinians dedicated to the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on the basis of a "two states for two peoples" solution. It also says it is, "the only joint Israeli-Palestinian public policy think-tank in the world".
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
An accompanier writes about Qalandiya Checkpoint
Kathy Preuss, an accompanier through EAPPI writes her blog, "Witness4peacetoday" at this link: http://witness4peace.wordpress.com/"
EAPPI is the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel, a project of the World Council of Churches - www.eappi.org
Recently Kathy spent the day around Qalandiya checkpoint and wrote for her blog. Here is her afternoon report.
"Qalandiya Checkpoint PM" - http://witness4peace.wordpress.com/2010/05/27/qalandiya-checkpoint-pm/
It’s 4pm, and I’m back again.
A Muslim woman, who speaks only Arabic, approaches me. A kind man offers to translate between us. She presents medical papers regarding her daughter who is inpatient in a Tel Aviv hospital. The mother is in the West Bank attempting to obtain the proper paperwork to enter Israel to see her daughter. She started this journey at 10am, waited in lines to be told she needed to be in different lines and finally ended up at Qalandiya. Once at Qalandiya, she learns the permit line was closed. She pauses and then starts crying.
I tell her I’m going to make calls. The mission is clear: help this woman get her permit to see her daughter in Tel Aviv. We move to the side, and my first call is to the humanitarian hotline. After being disconnected several times, I’m ultimately transferred to the Deputy Commanding Officer, the head guy, of Qalandiya. To my utter amazement, he was polite and even-tempered. He listened and advised me what needed to happen next, which was send her to another location (the next town over) to pick up the permit. Strangely enough he didn’t have the phone or address of this new place.
Plan B: call my boss, Pauline.
Pauline is amazing! Within 5 minutes, Pauline learned the permit was ready. I pass the phone back to the mother, and as she listens to Pauline, I see her whole body relax. Pauline was also able to provide the address and phone number to the mother. The mother gives the phone back to me, and in perfect English says “Thank you.” At the risk of breaking cultural norms, I give her a hug. She held me so tight. Language didn’t matter at that moment. Since arriving here in Palestine, there have been several occasions where I’ve felt completely helpless and ineffective. But in a short 45 minutes, I like to think my efforts made a difference.
So I tell you this story for several reasons.
*This is why EA’s go to checkpoints
*All this mother wanted to do was see her daughter in the hospital, and she hit many obstacles.
*If you really think about it, why is there a humanitarian hotline? (I view it as an admittance of a flawed system.)
*Imagine yourself in this mother’s place. How would you feel?
*This woman’s experience is common.
The next day I asked someone from the main office to follow up with the mother. It was learned the mother in fact did get the permit. Unfortunately the permit is for three days only, and her daughter is in the hospital for 14 days. And the mother asks, “What to do?”
Here’s what I can do! I can tell her story, share her humanness with the world. Because when you think about it, she’s just like you and me. This story will be part of my advocacy when I return to the States. This is what I can do!
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Sabeel’s Litany for Gaza
Sabeel’s Litany for Gaza - available at the website: http://www.sabeel.org/etemplate.php?id=58
From Sabeel's "Waves of Prayer" weekly prayer concern comes this litany for Gaza.
In the early morning, on May 31, 2010, Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla of 6 ships bound for the Gaza Strip, carrying nearly 700 people and a cargo of medical supplies, pre-fabricated homes, building supplies, and educational materials. The ships were attempting to break the internationally condemned Israeli blockade that, since June 2007, has prevented virtually all people and goods from entering or exiting the Gaza Strip (with the exception of insufficient humanitarian supplies and some aid workers). As the Israeli forces boarded the ships, at least 9 flotilla participants were killed while nearly 60 participants and 10 soldiers were injured. Eventually, all the ships were rerouted and the flotilla participants were arrested or deported. The siege of Gaza continues.
Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Centre in Jerusalem will hold a day of fasting and prayer on Monday, June 7, for the members of the flotilla, the people of Gaza, and for peace in Palestine and Israel. This litany is offered as a resource for individuals and congregations to use, in part or in whole. It can be adapted and read by 2 or 3 voices. We encourage pastors to use the litany in their Sunday services. [http://www.sabeel.org/]
Litany for Gaza
Thus says the Lord: Do not let the wise boast in their wisdom, do not let the mighty boast in their might, do not let the wealthy boast in their wealth; but let those who boast boast in this, that they understand and know me, that I am the Lord; I act with steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the Lord. [Jeremiah 9:23-24]
Eternal God, arbiter of justice and champion of peace, reach into the deep pit of violence, despair, and ruthlessness that shapes the lives of so many in Palestine and Israel. The nations are in an uproar, kingdoms totter, people cry out.
You, O God, are our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. [Matthew 5:9]
Grant, O God, healing to the men and women injured during the Israeli military assault. Bring grace and consolation to those who mourn the dead.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be filled.
Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. [Hebrews 13:3]
God who has proclaimed release to the captives and freedom to the oppressed, may all who have been taken prisoner for their involvement in the flotilla return safely home. We remember these and others who are unjustly detained.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, who has sent me to proclaim release to the captives…and to let the oppressed go free.
“Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.” [Psalm 46:10]
Lord of all, make known to all in Palestine and Israel that your love extends to all people, that might is not right, that fear begets fear, that love conquers all. Give hope to the many who, in love, speak and act boldly for justice.
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.
From the least to the greatest of them, everyone is greedy for unjust gain; and from prophet to priest, everyone deals falsely. They have treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying, “Peace, peace,” when there is no peace. [Jeremiah 6:13-14]
God of Justice, we pray that the nations of the world will no longer stand idly by, but uphold the rights of the oppressed in Gaza, the West Bank, and around the globe . We, the peoples of many lands, “reaffirm [our] faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small.” [UN Charter: Preamble]
Your judgements are just, O Lord, you will hold all nations accountable for what they have done, and also for what they have left undone.
Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. The effect of justice will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places. [Isaiah 32:16-18]
God who offers life in abundance, break the chains of injustice that shackle the people of Gaza. May the blockade that limits food and medicine, toys and cement, culture and trade, friendships and families be swiftly ended. May the people of Gaza and of the West Bank be brought together in unity.
They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. For like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be, and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands. [Isaiah 65]
“In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets." [Matthew 7:12]
God of equity, who knows no distinction between race or creed or colour, help us to be ever impatient in our encounter with injustice and abuse. As ambassadors for Christ, do not allow our hearts to be hardened, but let us live your message of justice, peace and reconciliation.
God, in your grace, transform the world.
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
From Sabeel's "Waves of Prayer" weekly prayer concern comes this litany for Gaza.
In the early morning, on May 31, 2010, Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla of 6 ships bound for the Gaza Strip, carrying nearly 700 people and a cargo of medical supplies, pre-fabricated homes, building supplies, and educational materials. The ships were attempting to break the internationally condemned Israeli blockade that, since June 2007, has prevented virtually all people and goods from entering or exiting the Gaza Strip (with the exception of insufficient humanitarian supplies and some aid workers). As the Israeli forces boarded the ships, at least 9 flotilla participants were killed while nearly 60 participants and 10 soldiers were injured. Eventually, all the ships were rerouted and the flotilla participants were arrested or deported. The siege of Gaza continues.
Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Centre in Jerusalem will hold a day of fasting and prayer on Monday, June 7, for the members of the flotilla, the people of Gaza, and for peace in Palestine and Israel. This litany is offered as a resource for individuals and congregations to use, in part or in whole. It can be adapted and read by 2 or 3 voices. We encourage pastors to use the litany in their Sunday services. [http://www.sabeel.org/]
Litany for Gaza
Thus says the Lord: Do not let the wise boast in their wisdom, do not let the mighty boast in their might, do not let the wealthy boast in their wealth; but let those who boast boast in this, that they understand and know me, that I am the Lord; I act with steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the Lord. [Jeremiah 9:23-24]
Eternal God, arbiter of justice and champion of peace, reach into the deep pit of violence, despair, and ruthlessness that shapes the lives of so many in Palestine and Israel. The nations are in an uproar, kingdoms totter, people cry out.
You, O God, are our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. [Matthew 5:9]
Grant, O God, healing to the men and women injured during the Israeli military assault. Bring grace and consolation to those who mourn the dead.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be filled.
Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. [Hebrews 13:3]
God who has proclaimed release to the captives and freedom to the oppressed, may all who have been taken prisoner for their involvement in the flotilla return safely home. We remember these and others who are unjustly detained.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, who has sent me to proclaim release to the captives…and to let the oppressed go free.
“Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.” [Psalm 46:10]
Lord of all, make known to all in Palestine and Israel that your love extends to all people, that might is not right, that fear begets fear, that love conquers all. Give hope to the many who, in love, speak and act boldly for justice.
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.
From the least to the greatest of them, everyone is greedy for unjust gain; and from prophet to priest, everyone deals falsely. They have treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying, “Peace, peace,” when there is no peace. [Jeremiah 6:13-14]
God of Justice, we pray that the nations of the world will no longer stand idly by, but uphold the rights of the oppressed in Gaza, the West Bank, and around the globe . We, the peoples of many lands, “reaffirm [our] faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small.” [UN Charter: Preamble]
Your judgements are just, O Lord, you will hold all nations accountable for what they have done, and also for what they have left undone.
Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. The effect of justice will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places. [Isaiah 32:16-18]
God who offers life in abundance, break the chains of injustice that shackle the people of Gaza. May the blockade that limits food and medicine, toys and cement, culture and trade, friendships and families be swiftly ended. May the people of Gaza and of the West Bank be brought together in unity.
They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. For like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be, and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands. [Isaiah 65]
“In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets." [Matthew 7:12]
God of equity, who knows no distinction between race or creed or colour, help us to be ever impatient in our encounter with injustice and abuse. As ambassadors for Christ, do not allow our hearts to be hardened, but let us live your message of justice, peace and reconciliation.
God, in your grace, transform the world.
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
ELCA's Bishop Mark Hanson Responds to Gaza Ship Convoy Incident
ELCA Bishop Hanson Responds to Gaza Ship Convoy Incident
"Expressing regret for the deaths and injuries that resulted when Israeli military forces intercepted a ship convoy seeking to deliver humanitarian goods to Gaza, the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), called for "a full, international and independent investigation into the matter," in a June 1 public statement."
See the full statement at this link:
http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/Office-of-the-Presiding-Bishop/Messages-and-Statements.aspx
Read the ELCA news release (quoted above) at this link: http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/Communication-Services/News/Releases.aspx?a=4537
"Expressing regret for the deaths and injuries that resulted when Israeli military forces intercepted a ship convoy seeking to deliver humanitarian goods to Gaza, the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), called for "a full, international and independent investigation into the matter," in a June 1 public statement."
See the full statement at this link:
http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/Office-of-the-Presiding-Bishop/Messages-and-Statements.aspx
Read the ELCA news release (quoted above) at this link: http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/Communication-Services/News/Releases.aspx?a=4537
Hanson spoke on behalf of the ELCA and the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), which he serves as president. He noted that "this tragic incident occurred on the first day of the World Council of Churches' World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel." [http://www.oikoumene.org/en/events-sections/wwppi.html]
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/--- --- ---
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Tent of Nations faces Israeli demolition orders
EAPPI and many others have forwarded an urgent email from Daoud Nassar of the Tent of Nations [http://www.tentofnations.org/], which is a project that the Nassar family started on their farm to bring youth of various cultures together to build bridges of understanding, reconciliation, and peace.
Nasser's story of "Daher's Vineyard" is familiar to many who have read Mitri Raheb's book, I Am a Palestinian Christian - http://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/item.jsp?clsid=168606&productgroupid=0&isbn=080062663X
According to Susan Wilder of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Washington Office, a letter has been sent "to Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren, with copy to Defense Minister Ehud Barak, from Bishop Burnside, chair of the ELCA bishops' Middle East Ready Bench, regarding the recent demolition orders issued to Tent of Nations. The letter expressed concern, asked that the orders be revoked, and asked that the Nassars receive assurances of no further interference."
Nader Hanna, Advocacy Officer, EAPPI, writes, "The farm is in the Western Hills of Bethlehem and is strategically based between three illegal Israeli settlements. For years, the local settlers have wanted the family’s land, but the Nassars have refused to sell their forefather’s land. When settler harassment and military intimidation failed to influence the family to leave, the settlers tried using the legal system to annex the land, but the Nassar family has owned the farm for generations and has land deeds from the Ottoman Era, British Mandate, and the time of Jordanian rule to prove their rightful ownership.
"Now it seems that a new pressure tactic is being adopted – one that is being used all-over Area C (an area comprising of 66% of the West Bank where Israel has total control over civil and security issues) – demolition orders. Daoud has been prevented to build on his land, so he dug underground to make a small chapel and used structures such as tents to host guests from all over the world who have come to support his family and help them farm their land. Yet, yesterday (Thursday, 27 May 2010) he was handed a demolition order for 9 ‘unlicensed’ structures on the farm that include caves, tents, lavatories, shacks for livestock, and a water cistern, which would essentially make the farm uninhabitable.
"To learn more about the Tent of Nations I recommend that you watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bH7YSexWAw, and read Mr. Nassar’s plea for help in the email below.
"Time is not on our side; the demolition order was handed to the Nassar family on Thursday and they were given only three days to refute it; although all Israeli government institutions are closed on Fridays and Saturdays. Thus, for your convenience I drafted the following letter that you may use or modify to send to your country’s Israeli Ambassador (click here for contact information: http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Sherut/IsraeliAbroad/Continents/) ... so as to demand that this grave injustice be prevented:
-------------------------------------------------
Dear Ambassador,
As a citizen of YOUR COUNTRY, I am writing to you concerning the Government of Israel’s recent decision to demolish nine structures in the Tent of Nations (http://www.tentofnations.org/), a project launched by a Palestinian family on their farm in the western hills of Bethlehem that aims to bring youth together to build bridges of understanding, reconciliation, and peace.
I ask that your government reconsiders this action, because it would be a violation of this family’s right to build on their own land. Moreover, such an action against a project of this nature would be widely interpreted as a proactive measure, which may make Israel appear as though it is not serious about reaching a peace agreement with the Palestinians, especially in light of the current proximity talks.
Sincerely,w
YOUR NAME
-- --
Now here is the message from Daoud Nassar [dnassar@tentofnations.org]
Date: Thu, May 27, 2010 at 11:03 PM
Subject: Urgent Message from the Tent of Nations
Dear Friends of Tent of Nations all over the world,
Today at 2.00 pm in the afternoon, 2 officers form the Israeli Civil Administration guarded by Israeli soldiers came to our farm and gave us NINE demolishing orders for nine ( structures) we built in the last years without a building permit from the Israeli Military Authority. The demolishing orders are for: tents, animals shelters, metal roof in front of both old houses, the restrooms (Shelters) , a water cistern, a metal container and 2 underground renovated cave structures. One officer was writing the demolishing orders and the other was taking pictures with two cameras, Israeli soldiers were following them everywhere and pointing their guns on us.
The demolishing orders were written in Hebrew and I refused to sign receiving them. We have 3 days only to react against those demolishing orders. The timing for delivering the demolishing orders was plant properly and purposely on Thursday, in order to make it difficult for us to try to stop those orders by the Israeli court within 3 days, because of the Jewish weekend (Friday and Saturday). The idea is to make it impossible for us to act quickly. I contacted our Lawyer and he will write an opposition and send it to the military court on Sunday morning. We hope to get a paper from the court through our Lawyer on Sunday morning to stop the demolishing orders.
We would like to ask you to be prepared and alert for actions, if anything might happen. We will keep you updated and will guide you for actions but please forward this E-mail to your friends.
PLEASE be prepared for actions… Thank you for all your solidarity and support.
They are trying to destroy our spirit, but we are determined to resist and overcome the Evil with GOOD and justice will prevail.
Blessings and Salaam,
Daoud
Daoud Nassar
Director
Tent of Nations
-People Building Bridges-
P.O.Box 28
Bethlehem - Palestine
Tel: +972 (0)2-274 3071
Fax: +972(0)2-276 7446
Mobile: +972(0)522 975 985
info@tentofnations.org
http://www.tentofnations.org/
Support in the USA for Tent of Nations: http://www.fotonna.org/index.html
The EAPPI website: http://www.eappi.org/
-- -- --
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Nasser's story of "Daher's Vineyard" is familiar to many who have read Mitri Raheb's book, I Am a Palestinian Christian - http://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/item.jsp?clsid=168606&productgroupid=0&isbn=080062663X
According to Susan Wilder of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Washington Office, a letter has been sent "to Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren, with copy to Defense Minister Ehud Barak, from Bishop Burnside, chair of the ELCA bishops' Middle East Ready Bench, regarding the recent demolition orders issued to Tent of Nations. The letter expressed concern, asked that the orders be revoked, and asked that the Nassars receive assurances of no further interference."
Nader Hanna, Advocacy Officer, EAPPI, writes, "The farm is in the Western Hills of Bethlehem and is strategically based between three illegal Israeli settlements. For years, the local settlers have wanted the family’s land, but the Nassars have refused to sell their forefather’s land. When settler harassment and military intimidation failed to influence the family to leave, the settlers tried using the legal system to annex the land, but the Nassar family has owned the farm for generations and has land deeds from the Ottoman Era, British Mandate, and the time of Jordanian rule to prove their rightful ownership.
"Now it seems that a new pressure tactic is being adopted – one that is being used all-over Area C (an area comprising of 66% of the West Bank where Israel has total control over civil and security issues) – demolition orders. Daoud has been prevented to build on his land, so he dug underground to make a small chapel and used structures such as tents to host guests from all over the world who have come to support his family and help them farm their land. Yet, yesterday (Thursday, 27 May 2010) he was handed a demolition order for 9 ‘unlicensed’ structures on the farm that include caves, tents, lavatories, shacks for livestock, and a water cistern, which would essentially make the farm uninhabitable.
"To learn more about the Tent of Nations I recommend that you watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bH7YSexWAw, and read Mr. Nassar’s plea for help in the email below.
"Time is not on our side; the demolition order was handed to the Nassar family on Thursday and they were given only three days to refute it; although all Israeli government institutions are closed on Fridays and Saturdays. Thus, for your convenience I drafted the following letter that you may use or modify to send to your country’s Israeli Ambassador (click here for contact information: http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Sherut/IsraeliAbroad/Continents/) ... so as to demand that this grave injustice be prevented:
-------------------------------------------------
Dear Ambassador,
As a citizen of YOUR COUNTRY, I am writing to you concerning the Government of Israel’s recent decision to demolish nine structures in the Tent of Nations (http://www.tentofnations.org/), a project launched by a Palestinian family on their farm in the western hills of Bethlehem that aims to bring youth together to build bridges of understanding, reconciliation, and peace.
I ask that your government reconsiders this action, because it would be a violation of this family’s right to build on their own land. Moreover, such an action against a project of this nature would be widely interpreted as a proactive measure, which may make Israel appear as though it is not serious about reaching a peace agreement with the Palestinians, especially in light of the current proximity talks.
Sincerely,w
YOUR NAME
-- --
Now here is the message from Daoud Nassar [dnassar@tentofnations.org]
Date: Thu, May 27, 2010 at 11:03 PM
Subject: Urgent Message from the Tent of Nations
Dear Friends of Tent of Nations all over the world,
Today at 2.00 pm in the afternoon, 2 officers form the Israeli Civil Administration guarded by Israeli soldiers came to our farm and gave us NINE demolishing orders for nine ( structures) we built in the last years without a building permit from the Israeli Military Authority. The demolishing orders are for: tents, animals shelters, metal roof in front of both old houses, the restrooms (Shelters) , a water cistern, a metal container and 2 underground renovated cave structures. One officer was writing the demolishing orders and the other was taking pictures with two cameras, Israeli soldiers were following them everywhere and pointing their guns on us.
The demolishing orders were written in Hebrew and I refused to sign receiving them. We have 3 days only to react against those demolishing orders. The timing for delivering the demolishing orders was plant properly and purposely on Thursday, in order to make it difficult for us to try to stop those orders by the Israeli court within 3 days, because of the Jewish weekend (Friday and Saturday). The idea is to make it impossible for us to act quickly. I contacted our Lawyer and he will write an opposition and send it to the military court on Sunday morning. We hope to get a paper from the court through our Lawyer on Sunday morning to stop the demolishing orders.
We would like to ask you to be prepared and alert for actions, if anything might happen. We will keep you updated and will guide you for actions but please forward this E-mail to your friends.
PLEASE be prepared for actions… Thank you for all your solidarity and support.
They are trying to destroy our spirit, but we are determined to resist and overcome the Evil with GOOD and justice will prevail.
Blessings and Salaam,
Daoud
Daoud Nassar
Director
Tent of Nations
-People Building Bridges-
P.O.Box 28
Bethlehem - Palestine
Tel: +972 (0)2-274 3071
Fax: +972(0)2-276 7446
Mobile: +972(0)522 975 985
info@tentofnations.org
http://www.tentofnations.org/
Support in the USA for Tent of Nations: http://www.fotonna.org/index.html
The EAPPI website: http://www.eappi.org/
-- -- --
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
EAPPI announcement of WCC Week of Peace
I was not happy with the formatting on my earlier post regarding the World Council of Churches' Week of Peace. I think this one will be better. Sorry for the duplication.
Promoting a just peace in Israel and Palestine
"Our question to our brothers and sisters in the churches today is: Are you able to help us get our freedom back? For this is the only way you can help the two peoples attain justice, peace, security and love."
A moment of truth - the Palestine Kairos Document, 6.1. [http://www.kairospalestine.ps/]
A week for peace
Israel's occupation of the Palestinian Territories is at the heart of perhaps the world's most globalized conflict. The siege of Gaza and the colonization of the West Bank drive ideological battles that reach far beyond the Middle East. Bringing a just peace to the Holy Land is in everybody's interest.
World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel [http://www.oikoumene.org/events-sections/wwppi.html ]
The Week for Peace, which begins on Saturday 29th May, is an international church-led campaign for a just peace through an end to the occupation and universal respect for human rights. The World Council of Churches initiative encourages Christians worldwide to pray, educate their communities about the occupation, and advocate for peace.
“At a time when both Palestinians and Israelis continue to suffer from the occupation of Palestinian territory, the World Council of Churches has designated this week as a time to pray for a lasting peace that would secure the legitimate rights and justice for both peoples,” says Rev. John Calhoun, the campaign's convener.
Events during the week will include exhibitions, lectures, worship services and live television broadcasts.
To find out about events in your country, visit the World Week for Peace website. [http://www.oikoumene.org/en/events-sections/wwppi/events-summary.html]
The occupation and you
The need for international action for peace in Israel and Palestine is as acute as ever. As Israeli peace activists like Gila Svirsky remind us, only by ending the occupation can Israel hope to live in peace with its neighbors. [http://www.eappi.org/en/news/ea-reports/r/article/4837/two-determined-women.html]
But Israeli policies like the blockade of Gaza continue to cause immense human suffering. Experts now warn of a “very serious” water crisis as Israel blocks the entry into Gaza of essential building materials to repair sewage treatment plants that should serve the territory’s 1.3 million people. [http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2010/0322/World-Water-Day-Thirsty-Gaza-residents-battle-salt-sewage]
Meanwhile, Israel is tightening its grip on occupied East Jerusalem, eroding prospects for a negotiated agreement over the Holy City. Palestinian Christians say Israeli policies are severely restricting their freedom of worship, preventing many of this year's Easter celebrations in Jerusalem and blocking thousands of people from reaching their holy sites. [http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4834/israel-restricted-easter.html]
Nearby in the neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah, Israeli settlers recently attacked Ecumenical Accompaniers with rocks and verbal insults in protest at our work with local families who have been evicted from their homes. EAs caught the attack on video. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPm1AQqF77M]
EAs also visited the site of several recent house demolitions and evictions which have seen an elderly couple and several children forced to move into their animal sheds after ideological settlers won a court case allowing them to seize the couple’s home of over four decades. [http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4566/another-palestinian-famil.html]
In a tightening of regulations that could affect thousands of Palestinians, the Israeli army has issued orders that could allow commanders to define thousands of West Bankers as "illegal infiltrators." Deportations to Gaza have already begun. [http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4566/illegal-deportations-of.html]
In a worrying development, the Israeli authorities appear to be clamping down harder on human rights activists, targeting both Palestinians and Israelis who resist the policies of the Israeli government. [http://www.icahd.org/eng/articles.asp?menu=6&submenu=2&article=579] Civil society groups have condemned recent arrests and laws proposed by right-wing politicians which, if they are passed by the Knesset, would severely limit the work of those carrying out their democratic right to hold their government to account.
Back in Gaza, Palestinians are waiting expectantly as international civil society ups the pressure on Israel to end the siege. Activists are sending nine boats from four countries to carry 10,000 tons of much-needed supplies to the strip. Follow their progress at http://witnessgaza.com/
Pray with us for justice
EAPPI campaigns for a genuine peace process that can justly resolve the conflict in the Middle East. You can keep up to date with our campaigns by joining our 700-strong Facebook group at http://www.eappi.org/index.php?id=7869&rid=f_3553&mid=2210&aC=4214d7bf&jumpurl=12
An important part of our work is exposing the brutality of the occupation - in many languages. For regular updates "from the ground" in the Occupied Territories visit http://www.eappi.org/index.php?id=7869&rid=f_3553&mid=2210&aC=4214d7bf&jumpurl=13 - or visit the websites of our sending organizations in Germany, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United States- [www.eappi-us.org].
As we enter this week of campaigning, we ask you to join us in prayer for justice and peace in the land of the Holy One.
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com
Promoting a just peace in Israel and Palestine
"Our question to our brothers and sisters in the churches today is: Are you able to help us get our freedom back? For this is the only way you can help the two peoples attain justice, peace, security and love."
A moment of truth - the Palestine Kairos Document, 6.1. [http://www.kairospalestine.ps/]
A week for peace
Israel's occupation of the Palestinian Territories is at the heart of perhaps the world's most globalized conflict. The siege of Gaza and the colonization of the West Bank drive ideological battles that reach far beyond the Middle East. Bringing a just peace to the Holy Land is in everybody's interest.
World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel [http://www.oikoumene.org/events-sections/wwppi.html ]
The Week for Peace, which begins on Saturday 29th May, is an international church-led campaign for a just peace through an end to the occupation and universal respect for human rights. The World Council of Churches initiative encourages Christians worldwide to pray, educate their communities about the occupation, and advocate for peace.
“At a time when both Palestinians and Israelis continue to suffer from the occupation of Palestinian territory, the World Council of Churches has designated this week as a time to pray for a lasting peace that would secure the legitimate rights and justice for both peoples,” says Rev. John Calhoun, the campaign's convener.
Events during the week will include exhibitions, lectures, worship services and live television broadcasts.
To find out about events in your country, visit the World Week for Peace website. [http://www.oikoumene.org/en/events-sections/wwppi/events-summary.html]
The occupation and you
The need for international action for peace in Israel and Palestine is as acute as ever. As Israeli peace activists like Gila Svirsky remind us, only by ending the occupation can Israel hope to live in peace with its neighbors. [http://www.eappi.org/en/news/ea-reports/r/article/4837/two-determined-women.html]
But Israeli policies like the blockade of Gaza continue to cause immense human suffering. Experts now warn of a “very serious” water crisis as Israel blocks the entry into Gaza of essential building materials to repair sewage treatment plants that should serve the territory’s 1.3 million people. [http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2010/0322/World-Water-Day-Thirsty-Gaza-residents-battle-salt-sewage]
Meanwhile, Israel is tightening its grip on occupied East Jerusalem, eroding prospects for a negotiated agreement over the Holy City. Palestinian Christians say Israeli policies are severely restricting their freedom of worship, preventing many of this year's Easter celebrations in Jerusalem and blocking thousands of people from reaching their holy sites. [http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4834/israel-restricted-easter.html]
Nearby in the neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah, Israeli settlers recently attacked Ecumenical Accompaniers with rocks and verbal insults in protest at our work with local families who have been evicted from their homes. EAs caught the attack on video. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPm1AQqF77M]
EAs also visited the site of several recent house demolitions and evictions which have seen an elderly couple and several children forced to move into their animal sheds after ideological settlers won a court case allowing them to seize the couple’s home of over four decades. [http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4566/another-palestinian-famil.html]
In a tightening of regulations that could affect thousands of Palestinians, the Israeli army has issued orders that could allow commanders to define thousands of West Bankers as "illegal infiltrators." Deportations to Gaza have already begun. [http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4566/illegal-deportations-of.html]
In a worrying development, the Israeli authorities appear to be clamping down harder on human rights activists, targeting both Palestinians and Israelis who resist the policies of the Israeli government. [http://www.icahd.org/eng/articles.asp?menu=6&submenu=2&article=579] Civil society groups have condemned recent arrests and laws proposed by right-wing politicians which, if they are passed by the Knesset, would severely limit the work of those carrying out their democratic right to hold their government to account.
Back in Gaza, Palestinians are waiting expectantly as international civil society ups the pressure on Israel to end the siege. Activists are sending nine boats from four countries to carry 10,000 tons of much-needed supplies to the strip. Follow their progress at http://witnessgaza.com/
Pray with us for justice
EAPPI campaigns for a genuine peace process that can justly resolve the conflict in the Middle East. You can keep up to date with our campaigns by joining our 700-strong Facebook group at http://www.eappi.org/index.php?id=7869&rid=f_3553&mid=2210&aC=4214d7bf&jumpurl=12
An important part of our work is exposing the brutality of the occupation - in many languages. For regular updates "from the ground" in the Occupied Territories visit http://www.eappi.org/index.php?id=7869&rid=f_3553&mid=2210&aC=4214d7bf&jumpurl=13 - or visit the websites of our sending organizations in Germany, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United States- [www.eappi-us.org].
As we enter this week of campaigning, we ask you to join us in prayer for justice and peace in the land of the Holy One.
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
CMEP sees `A summer of hope'
Advocacy analysis here from Churches for Middle East Peace.
http://www.cmep.org/
A Summer of Hope
Warren Clark, Executive Director
~May 21, 2010~
Peace talks led by Senator George Mitchell are underway again between Israel and Palestinians. The Obama administration has shown it will not tolerate actions by either side that would derail the talks again. So far the administration has shown extraordinary courage and cool, working to keep diversions in check and to keep all parties focused on the job at hand.
The March 9 Israeli announcement about housing in East Jerusalem during the visit of Vice President Biden was followed March 12 by a conversation between Secretary Clinton and Prime Minister Netanyahu in which the State Department spokesman said, "The Secretary [said she]could not understand how this happened...". And she "made clear that the Israeli government needed to demonstrate … they are committed … to the peace process".
Publicly questioning Israel's commitment to peace is very strong diplomatic language indeed. The next week a Washington meeting between the President and the Prime Minister ended without any statement, suggesting differences remained.
Easter and Passover were followed by public posturing by various parties, but peace talks under Mitchell finally did start on May 9. Despite denials, the key element of the resumption is the de facto suspension of new Israeli construction activity in East Jerusalem, a necessary step to bringing the Palestinians to the negotiating table. The State Department issued a statement saying Israel had pledged no construction for two years in the east Jerusalem neighborhood that was the subject of the controversy March 9, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas had pledged to work against incitement of any sort. Israeli officials have denied there had been a decision to suspend construction in East Jerusalem, but that in fact is the case for now.
The same day the State Department issued a stern warning against any action by either party that could derail the talks again. "If either takes significant actions during the proximity talks that we judge would seriously undermine trust, we will respond to hold them accountable and ensure that negotiations continue." In other words, the U.S. is determined that the talks will go forward and will not allow either side to undermine them.
This is unprecedented. The United States has changed the game. No longer will talks go on while Israeli expansion continues into Palestinian lands, and any Palestinian incitement or other acts that could undermine confidence will not be tolerated. The United States is now actively involved in seeking an agreement rather than leaving the two sides to their own devices.
There are timelines attached to these talks. Both Secretary Clinton and Senator Mitchell said early this year they expected to reach an agreement in two years. Two years is probably the maximum time possible that pressures for Israeli expansion can be contained without an agreement. It also coincides with the end of the current Obama administration.
There is an interim deadline of September 10. That is the date when the suspension of Israeli construction in the West Bank is scheduled to expire. It is also the date that the "proximity" talks led by Mitchell are expected to end, to be followed by direct negotiations. This will put pressure on the Palestinians to be sure there is enough progress in negotiations by that time to put pressure on Israel to continue the talks and continue the construction suspension.
The second round of talks led by Mitchell took place this week. Progress has been reported, including a Palestinian offer to increase the amount of land along the 1967 border that could be swapped.
Hold your breath. With so much at stake it promises to be an interesting diplomatic summer.
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The latest from Churches for Middle East Peace - http://www.cmep.org/Alerts/2010/2010apr30.html - Ask your Representative to Sign Letter Urging the President to End the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict to advance U.S. National Security Interests.
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Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Yanoun revisited… Searching for a glimmer of hope
Pat Ochodnicky, a veteran accompanier with the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI), returned to the northern West Bank for a brief stint to cover for absent "EAs."
Her report, "Yanoun Revisited … searching for a glimmer of hope," can be found at this link: http://pochod.wordpress.com/2010/03/
Here is are a few excerpts:
"Ten months after completing our term as Ecumenical Accompaniers in the West Bank, teammates Rachel (UK), Birgitta (Sweden), and I gathered again in Jerusalem. We had maintained contact after leaving the country and dreamed not only of a reunion, but of a return to our beloved village of Yanoun."
"On the surface, the village was the same as we remembered. The children are naturally a bit taller and village matriarch Adla is a bit more stooped and now uses a cane to help navigate the uneven ground in front of their house. But it wasn’t long before we sensed a new tension and a kind of watchfulness just under the surface of the conversations and daily activities. Though we had followed the reports of the teams that succeeded us, we weren’t prepared for the changes that have taken place since we lift (sic)."
"There has been a marked expansion of the outposts on the surrounding hilltops. While the outposts are illegal even under Israeli law, they have government provided electricity, telephone lines, water and military protection. There are increased incursions into the village by armed settlers and by the military. While there has been no violence, they are very intimidating and dehumanizing. The settlers rarely speak, but peer into the homes and other buildings without even acknowledging the presence of those who dwell there. On one occasion, the men between the ages of 15 and 50 were ordered out of their homes at midnight by the military and forced to stand outside in the bitter cold for three hours because a settler reported that someone had been seen near their sheep shelter and was `thinking of stealing a sheep.'"
"In Burin, our contact family, refugees from 1948 whose home is separated from the rest of the village by a settler road, reported the same pattern of increased harassment and destruction. Twenty-three olive trees were burned during the summer. Settlers also entered their home and attempted to set fire to it. Last year there were water storage tanks on their roof, but the settlers protested and the military removed them. Whereas last year settlers came in twos and threes, they now come in groups of twenty to thirty. But there is a new baby to cuddle, and coffee and tea and fruit and popcorn … and for a brief time we were able to laugh and reminisce and put aside the grim realities."
Read all of Pat's reports at her blog: http://pochod.wordpress.com/
Want to see where Yanoun is located? There's a map at this link: http://www.yanoun.org/maps/west_bank.html
The EAPPI is an effort of the World Council of Churches: http://www.eappi.org/
The US website is http://www.eappi-us.org/
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, go the the blog: A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace, http://www.blogspot.voicesforpeace.com/
Her report, "Yanoun Revisited … searching for a glimmer of hope," can be found at this link: http://pochod.wordpress.com/2010/03/
Here is are a few excerpts:
"Ten months after completing our term as Ecumenical Accompaniers in the West Bank, teammates Rachel (UK), Birgitta (Sweden), and I gathered again in Jerusalem. We had maintained contact after leaving the country and dreamed not only of a reunion, but of a return to our beloved village of Yanoun."
"On the surface, the village was the same as we remembered. The children are naturally a bit taller and village matriarch Adla is a bit more stooped and now uses a cane to help navigate the uneven ground in front of their house. But it wasn’t long before we sensed a new tension and a kind of watchfulness just under the surface of the conversations and daily activities. Though we had followed the reports of the teams that succeeded us, we weren’t prepared for the changes that have taken place since we lift (sic)."
"There has been a marked expansion of the outposts on the surrounding hilltops. While the outposts are illegal even under Israeli law, they have government provided electricity, telephone lines, water and military protection. There are increased incursions into the village by armed settlers and by the military. While there has been no violence, they are very intimidating and dehumanizing. The settlers rarely speak, but peer into the homes and other buildings without even acknowledging the presence of those who dwell there. On one occasion, the men between the ages of 15 and 50 were ordered out of their homes at midnight by the military and forced to stand outside in the bitter cold for three hours because a settler reported that someone had been seen near their sheep shelter and was `thinking of stealing a sheep.'"
"In Burin, our contact family, refugees from 1948 whose home is separated from the rest of the village by a settler road, reported the same pattern of increased harassment and destruction. Twenty-three olive trees were burned during the summer. Settlers also entered their home and attempted to set fire to it. Last year there were water storage tanks on their roof, but the settlers protested and the military removed them. Whereas last year settlers came in twos and threes, they now come in groups of twenty to thirty. But there is a new baby to cuddle, and coffee and tea and fruit and popcorn … and for a brief time we were able to laugh and reminisce and put aside the grim realities."
Read all of Pat's reports at her blog: http://pochod.wordpress.com/
Want to see where Yanoun is located? There's a map at this link: http://www.yanoun.org/maps/west_bank.html
The EAPPI is an effort of the World Council of Churches: http://www.eappi.org/
The US website is http://www.eappi-us.org/
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, go the the blog: A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace, http://www.blogspot.voicesforpeace.com/
World Council of Churches announces World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel
The World Council of Churches calls for all churches to unite for World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel
Please visit the initiative’s website - http://www.worldweekforpeace.org/ - and click the links for resources for prayer, education and advocacy. The Education page is especially helpful: http://www.oikoumene.org/en/events-sections/wwppi/resources.html#c25059
World Council of Churches
12 May 2010
Churches and peacemakers unite in prayer, education and advocacy for peace in Palestine-Israel.
In countries across six continents, a wide diversity of religious communities, people of faith, human rights and peace organizations are preparing to mark the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel.
The World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel, an initiative of the Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum (PIEF) of the World Council of Churches, will take place from 29 May to 4 June 2010. The aim of World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel is to encourage concerned communities and individuals to make a common witness by participating in worship, educational events and acts of advocacy in support of a just peace for Palestinians and Israelis.
“At a time when both Palestinians and Israelis continue to suffer from the occupation of Palestinian territory, the World Council of Churches has designated this week as a time to pray for a lasting peace that would secure the legitimate rights and justice for both peoples,” says Rev. John Calhoun, the convener of World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel. “In addition, the World Council of Churches also welcomes acts of education and advocacy that would help bring an end to the illegal occupation of Palestine in accordance with United Nations resolutions.”
The activities planned for World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel demonstrate the initiative’s commitment to peaceful action in support of a resolution to this conflict. Local church groups and community activists will advocate with government officials through seminars, public discussions, public demonstrations and open forums about the urgent need to bring to an end the inherent injustices in the situation.
Palestinians and Israelis will also initiate creative actions and tangible expressions of peace in front of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, at the separation wall that divides Bethlehem and in houses of worship in Jerusalem and across Palestine so as to affirm the human dignity and rights of all peoples.
The World Council of Churches invites member churches, religious and community organizations, and all people of faith to join with peacemakers in the region and around the world by participating in the events of the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel.
For more information on the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel and to view a list of events being planned by country, please visit the initiative’s website at http://www.oikoumene.org/index.php?id=2267&rid=f_4037&mid=2126&aC=df68f80a&jumpurl=1, or send an email to Rev. John Calhoun, convener, at calhoun.wwppi@gmail.com.
At the World Council of Churches in Geneva, contact: Michel Nseir, Michel.Nseir@wcc-coe.org (+41-22-7916052) or Ranjan Solomon, ranjan.solomon@wcc-coe.org, (+41-22-7916398) or visit the website: http://pief.oikoumene.org/
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The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 349 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 560 million Christians in over 110 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, from the [Lutheran] Church of Norway. Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, go the the blog: A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace, www.blogspot.voicesforpeace.com
Please visit the initiative’s website - http://www.worldweekforpeace.org/ - and click the links for resources for prayer, education and advocacy. The Education page is especially helpful: http://www.oikoumene.org/en/events-sections/wwppi/resources.html#c25059
World Council of Churches
12 May 2010
Churches and peacemakers unite in prayer, education and advocacy for peace in Palestine-Israel.
In countries across six continents, a wide diversity of religious communities, people of faith, human rights and peace organizations are preparing to mark the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel.
The World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel, an initiative of the Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum (PIEF) of the World Council of Churches, will take place from 29 May to 4 June 2010. The aim of World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel is to encourage concerned communities and individuals to make a common witness by participating in worship, educational events and acts of advocacy in support of a just peace for Palestinians and Israelis.
“At a time when both Palestinians and Israelis continue to suffer from the occupation of Palestinian territory, the World Council of Churches has designated this week as a time to pray for a lasting peace that would secure the legitimate rights and justice for both peoples,” says Rev. John Calhoun, the convener of World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel. “In addition, the World Council of Churches also welcomes acts of education and advocacy that would help bring an end to the illegal occupation of Palestine in accordance with United Nations resolutions.”
The activities planned for World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel demonstrate the initiative’s commitment to peaceful action in support of a resolution to this conflict. Local church groups and community activists will advocate with government officials through seminars, public discussions, public demonstrations and open forums about the urgent need to bring to an end the inherent injustices in the situation.
Palestinians and Israelis will also initiate creative actions and tangible expressions of peace in front of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, at the separation wall that divides Bethlehem and in houses of worship in Jerusalem and across Palestine so as to affirm the human dignity and rights of all peoples.
The World Council of Churches invites member churches, religious and community organizations, and all people of faith to join with peacemakers in the region and around the world by participating in the events of the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel.
For more information on the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel and to view a list of events being planned by country, please visit the initiative’s website at http://www.oikoumene.org/index.php?id=2267&rid=f_4037&mid=2126&aC=df68f80a&jumpurl=1, or send an email to Rev. John Calhoun, convener, at calhoun.wwppi@gmail.com.
At the World Council of Churches in Geneva, contact: Michel Nseir, Michel.Nseir@wcc-coe.org (+41-22-7916052) or Ranjan Solomon, ranjan.solomon@wcc-coe.org, (+41-22-7916398) or visit the website: http://pief.oikoumene.org/
-- --
The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 349 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 560 million Christians in over 110 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, from the [Lutheran] Church of Norway. Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, go the the blog: A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace, www.blogspot.voicesforpeace.com
Thursday, May 6, 2010
ELCA Bishops Express Concern for Israeli Orders' Effect on Palestinians
Nine bishops of the ELCA wrote to Secretary of State Clinton calling for Israel's "infiltration" military orders to be rescinded or frozen. We can follow up with corresponding emails and calls to Clinton's office citing this letter.
ELCA NEWS SERVICE
May 3, 2010
http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/Communication-Services/News/Releases.aspx?a=4516
ELCA Bishops Express Concern for Israeli Orders' Effect on Palestinians
10-130-JB
CHICAGO (ELCA) -- Nine synod bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) expressed concern about new Israeli military orders regarding the "prevention of infiltration" in the West Bank in an April 30 letter to U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.
The bishops asked that the U.S. government exert its influence to ensure that "the orders in question are immediately frozen and ultimately rescinded," they wrote in their letter to Clinton.
The bishops, members of the ELCA Conference of Bishops' Middle East caucus, said the new Israeli orders "would seem to work against prospects for peace."
The orders, which became effective April 13, broaden the definition of infiltrator in a way that could put thousands of Palestinians whose homes are in the West Bank at risk for deportation, the bishops wrote. The bishops also wrote that foreign nationals working, volunteering or visiting the West Bank could be affected by the new orders.
"While the previous orders from 1969 were focused on persons entering the West Bank unlawfully from Jordan, Syria, Egypt and Lebanon, the new orders appear to redefine 'infiltrator' as anyone present in the West Bank without an Israeli permit. It is unclear what sort of permit is needed, and this vagueness is of great concern. The lack of clarity leaves room for both arbitrary and sweeping implementation," the bishops wrote to Clinton.
The ELCA bishops wrote that, regardless of how the orders are carried out, "they are likely to have the immediate effect of increasing insecurity among West Bank residents." Many may fear that regular travel for work, education, medical care or visits to relatives could result in their being detained by the Israeli military, beyond "existing onerous restrictions on movement and access," the bishops wrote.
The bishops said they recognize Israel's need to provide for its own security, but they said that it's unclear how the orders contribute to that goal.
"The orders do, however, have the potential to further disrupt normal life for thousands of West Bank residents, and in this regard we are concerned that their implementation could be an additional violation of international law, including the fourth Geneva Convention, which requires Israel, as the occupying power, to safeguard the welfare of those living under occupation," the bishops wrote in their letter to Clinton.
The bishops also pointed out that the ELCA has a long history of ministry in the region, working in partnership with Palestinian Christians, including the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, and others within the interfaith community. Most members of the ELCA Conference of Bishops visited the Middle East, including Israel and the West Bank, during one of two conference trips there in 2009.
"We are devoted to seeking a just peace for all people in the land. It is out of these relationships and commitments that our current concern arises," the bishops wrote.
Bishops who signed the letter were:
+ The Rev. Bruce H. Burnside, ELCA South-Central Synod of Wisconsin, Madison, caucus chair
+ The Rev. Murray D. Finck, ELCA Pacifica Synod, Santa Ana, Calif.
+ The Rev. Gerald L. Mansholt, ELCA Central States Synod, Kansas City, Kan.
+ The Rev. Dean W. Nelson, ELCA Southwest California Synod, Glendale
+ The Rev. Margaret G. Payne, ELCA New England Synod, Worcester, Mass.
+ The Rev. Duane C. Pederson, ELCA Northwest Synod of Wisconsin, Chetek
+ The Rev. Floyd M. Schoenhals, ELCA Arkansas-Oklahoma Synod, Tulsa, Okla.
+ The Rev. Harold L. Usgaard, ELCA Southeastern Minnesota Synod, Rochester
+ The Rev. David B. Zellmer, ELCA South Dakota Synod, Sioux Falls
--- A link to the full text of the ELCA bishops' letter to Sec. Clinton is at http://www.ELCA.org/advocacy on the ELCA Web site.
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, go the the blog: A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace, www.blogspot.voicesforpeace.com
ELCA NEWS SERVICE
May 3, 2010
http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/Communication-Services/News/Releases.aspx?a=4516
ELCA Bishops Express Concern for Israeli Orders' Effect on Palestinians
10-130-JB
CHICAGO (ELCA) -- Nine synod bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) expressed concern about new Israeli military orders regarding the "prevention of infiltration" in the West Bank in an April 30 letter to U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.
The bishops asked that the U.S. government exert its influence to ensure that "the orders in question are immediately frozen and ultimately rescinded," they wrote in their letter to Clinton.
The bishops, members of the ELCA Conference of Bishops' Middle East caucus, said the new Israeli orders "would seem to work against prospects for peace."
The orders, which became effective April 13, broaden the definition of infiltrator in a way that could put thousands of Palestinians whose homes are in the West Bank at risk for deportation, the bishops wrote. The bishops also wrote that foreign nationals working, volunteering or visiting the West Bank could be affected by the new orders.
"While the previous orders from 1969 were focused on persons entering the West Bank unlawfully from Jordan, Syria, Egypt and Lebanon, the new orders appear to redefine 'infiltrator' as anyone present in the West Bank without an Israeli permit. It is unclear what sort of permit is needed, and this vagueness is of great concern. The lack of clarity leaves room for both arbitrary and sweeping implementation," the bishops wrote to Clinton.
The ELCA bishops wrote that, regardless of how the orders are carried out, "they are likely to have the immediate effect of increasing insecurity among West Bank residents." Many may fear that regular travel for work, education, medical care or visits to relatives could result in their being detained by the Israeli military, beyond "existing onerous restrictions on movement and access," the bishops wrote.
The bishops said they recognize Israel's need to provide for its own security, but they said that it's unclear how the orders contribute to that goal.
"The orders do, however, have the potential to further disrupt normal life for thousands of West Bank residents, and in this regard we are concerned that their implementation could be an additional violation of international law, including the fourth Geneva Convention, which requires Israel, as the occupying power, to safeguard the welfare of those living under occupation," the bishops wrote in their letter to Clinton.
The bishops also pointed out that the ELCA has a long history of ministry in the region, working in partnership with Palestinian Christians, including the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, and others within the interfaith community. Most members of the ELCA Conference of Bishops visited the Middle East, including Israel and the West Bank, during one of two conference trips there in 2009.
"We are devoted to seeking a just peace for all people in the land. It is out of these relationships and commitments that our current concern arises," the bishops wrote.
Bishops who signed the letter were:
+ The Rev. Bruce H. Burnside, ELCA South-Central Synod of Wisconsin, Madison, caucus chair
+ The Rev. Murray D. Finck, ELCA Pacifica Synod, Santa Ana, Calif.
+ The Rev. Gerald L. Mansholt, ELCA Central States Synod, Kansas City, Kan.
+ The Rev. Dean W. Nelson, ELCA Southwest California Synod, Glendale
+ The Rev. Margaret G. Payne, ELCA New England Synod, Worcester, Mass.
+ The Rev. Duane C. Pederson, ELCA Northwest Synod of Wisconsin, Chetek
+ The Rev. Floyd M. Schoenhals, ELCA Arkansas-Oklahoma Synod, Tulsa, Okla.
+ The Rev. Harold L. Usgaard, ELCA Southeastern Minnesota Synod, Rochester
+ The Rev. David B. Zellmer, ELCA South Dakota Synod, Sioux Falls
--- A link to the full text of the ELCA bishops' letter to Sec. Clinton is at http://www.ELCA.org/advocacy on the ELCA Web site.
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, go the the blog: A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace, www.blogspot.voicesforpeace.com
Sabeel's Fifth International Young Adult Conference
"From the Belly of the Whale - A Palestinian Christian Cry for Justice"
Sabeel's Fifth International Young Adult Conference, July 21 - August 1, 2010, in Jerusalem. There's still room for young adults -ages 18 to 35. Registration deadline: June 1.
Do you know a young person for whom this unique international experience would be a good fit? Do you know leaders who work with youth and young adults? Click here for the flyer - http://www.sabeel.org/pdfs/2010%20Conference%20Flyer.pdf
Here for the application form - http://www.sabeel.org/pdfs/2010%20young%20adult%20co nf..pdf
The Vision: To provide young adults (18-35) with an alternative pilgrimage experience that emphasizes active engagement with both the people and the land.
The conference includes visits to Palestinian and Israeli Communities, cultural activities, contextual tours of holy sites, volunteering and activism, worship and bible study, panel discussions and advocacy workshops.
12 Days in Palestine and Israel, total cost: $1100 (not including airfare or transport from airport). Contact us for info on sponsors and financial aid.
Introduction:
The 5th Annual Young Adult Conference, titled “From the Belly of the Whale: A Palestinian Christian Cry for Justice,” is inspired by the Book of Jonah. In the story, the nationalist prophet Jonah travels against his will to preach repentance to his Assyrian enemies in the city of Nineveh. A story of mercy, compassion, perception and responsibility, the tale of Jonah and the Assyrians will serve as a springboard for this year’s conference, giving new perspective to the Palestinian struggle by providing a humanizing lens for seeing reality that is grounded in both Jewish and Christian Religious traditions. This year’s conference, beginning July 21st, will last for twelve days. We hope to bring together a strong group of Palestinian and International participants, including but not limited to seminarians, university students, social workers, journalists, clergy members and social activists.
Take a look at our flyer and fill out an application! Here is a link to a chapter from Reverend Naim Ateek’s recent book, A Palestinian Christian Cry for Reconciliation, interpreting the Jonah story from the perspective of a Palestinian Liberation Theologian: http://www.sabeel.org/pdfs/Ateek%20chapter_5.pdf
Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center: Sabeel is an ecumenical grassroots liberation theology movement among Palestinian Christians. Inspired by the life and teaching of Jesus Christ, this liberation theology seeks to deepen the faith of Palestinian Christians, promote unity among them, and lead them to social action.
Learn about Sabeel and Liberation Theology at www.sabeel.org
Email us at: youth@sabeel.org or call 972.2.532.7136
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, go the the blog: A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace, www.blogspot.voicesforpeace.com
Sabeel's Fifth International Young Adult Conference, July 21 - August 1, 2010, in Jerusalem. There's still room for young adults -ages 18 to 35. Registration deadline: June 1.
Do you know a young person for whom this unique international experience would be a good fit? Do you know leaders who work with youth and young adults? Click here for the flyer - http://www.sabeel.org/pdfs/2010%20Conference%20Flyer.pdf
Here for the application form - http://www.sabeel.org/pdfs/2010%20young%20adult%20co nf..pdf
The Vision: To provide young adults (18-35) with an alternative pilgrimage experience that emphasizes active engagement with both the people and the land.
The conference includes visits to Palestinian and Israeli Communities, cultural activities, contextual tours of holy sites, volunteering and activism, worship and bible study, panel discussions and advocacy workshops.
12 Days in Palestine and Israel, total cost: $1100 (not including airfare or transport from airport). Contact us for info on sponsors and financial aid.
Introduction:
The 5th Annual Young Adult Conference, titled “From the Belly of the Whale: A Palestinian Christian Cry for Justice,” is inspired by the Book of Jonah. In the story, the nationalist prophet Jonah travels against his will to preach repentance to his Assyrian enemies in the city of Nineveh. A story of mercy, compassion, perception and responsibility, the tale of Jonah and the Assyrians will serve as a springboard for this year’s conference, giving new perspective to the Palestinian struggle by providing a humanizing lens for seeing reality that is grounded in both Jewish and Christian Religious traditions. This year’s conference, beginning July 21st, will last for twelve days. We hope to bring together a strong group of Palestinian and International participants, including but not limited to seminarians, university students, social workers, journalists, clergy members and social activists.
Take a look at our flyer and fill out an application! Here is a link to a chapter from Reverend Naim Ateek’s recent book, A Palestinian Christian Cry for Reconciliation, interpreting the Jonah story from the perspective of a Palestinian Liberation Theologian: http://www.sabeel.org/pdfs/Ateek%20chapter_5.pdf
Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center: Sabeel is an ecumenical grassroots liberation theology movement among Palestinian Christians. Inspired by the life and teaching of Jesus Christ, this liberation theology seeks to deepen the faith of Palestinian Christians, promote unity among them, and lead them to social action.
Learn about Sabeel and Liberation Theology at www.sabeel.org
Email us at: youth@sabeel.org or call 972.2.532.7136
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To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, go the the blog: A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace, www.blogspot.voicesforpeace.com
Bright Stars Program provides opportunities for Bethlehem kids
The Constellations newsletter from Bright Stars of Bethlehem arrived announcing activities for all ages through the Bright Stars Program, Azwaj and Ajyal.
To see all the news, go to the website: http://www.brightstarsbethlehem.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=0&Itemid=82
Brights Stars is associated with Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem - http://www.elcjhl.org/cong/bethlehem/
Bright Stars of Bethlehem has witnessed the bloom of spring and promise in the lives of those assisted through the support and prayers of our friends here in the US. This support, which springs from many open and generous hearts, enables youth, families and older adults to find new ways of learning and living in the Holy Land amid occupation and conflict.
And now a hope that many thought only a far-off dream, Dar al-Kalima college is “blooming” from the foundation to the top on the hillside of Bethlehem. As construction continues so that classes might begin on-site this fall, excitement and promise build for young adults and people of all ages in Bethlehem and beyond for a brighter future.
The newsletter reports:
Computer classes, field trips, yoga sessions and lectures from local spiritual leaders and social care professionals are just a few of the activities available to participants in the Bright Stars, Azwaj and Ajyal programs run by the Diyar Consortium in Bethlehem.
The Bright Stars Program provides opportunities for self-discovery and skill development for over 500 children and youth, ages 6-16, through its after-school programs, Friday clubs and Summer Academy. By giving students a variety of options and allowing them to try different activities and choose for themselves what they would like to do, the Bright Stars Program is helping children develop a sense of self and the feeling that they play a role in determining their future - http://www.brightstarsbethlehem.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=52&Itemid=68
The Azwaj Program for young families focuses on education, spirituality and recreation for 18 young couples and families with young children. With the usual challenges of parenting and the added pressures of living in a city surrounded by a 25-foot-high concrete wall, parents in Bethlehem need extra support and opportunities to give their families a more “normal” life. The Azwaj Program is combating Christian emigration by making it more possible for families to stay in Palestine - http://www.brightstarsbethlehem.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=53&Itemid=69
The Ajyal Elder Care Program cares for the physical, social and spiritual well-being of 500 senior citizens in the Bethlehem area. Care strategies are tailored to the activity level of the seniors themselves – there are the “go-go”s, the “slow-go”s and the “no-go”s – with community activities and group meals for the more active members and mobile nursing care for those who are home-bound. With traditional family structures shifting and many seniors needing extra support, the Ajyal community helps seniors believe in “life after 55 that is worth living” - http://www.brightstarsbethlehem.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=54&Itemid=71
Together, the Bright Stars Program, Azwaj and Ajyal make up the new cluster of ministries called “Dar al-Kalima Community Building”. The programs themselves have been operating for several years, but have been newly grouped together through the recent restructuring of the Diyar Consortium - http://www.diyar-consortium.org/ - (the collective name for Dar Annadwa, Dar al-Kalima Health & Wellness, Dar al-Kalima College and Dar al-Balad). Raida Mansour, previously the manager of the Ajyal program, is now the manager of the entire cluster of programs. Her sincere love of God and sense of call shines through in her commitment to doing God's work in her community, serving the underserved and helping people live abundant lives.
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
To see all the news, go to the website: http://www.brightstarsbethlehem.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=0&Itemid=82
Brights Stars is associated with Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem - http://www.elcjhl.org/cong/bethlehem/
Bright Stars of Bethlehem has witnessed the bloom of spring and promise in the lives of those assisted through the support and prayers of our friends here in the US. This support, which springs from many open and generous hearts, enables youth, families and older adults to find new ways of learning and living in the Holy Land amid occupation and conflict.
And now a hope that many thought only a far-off dream, Dar al-Kalima college is “blooming” from the foundation to the top on the hillside of Bethlehem. As construction continues so that classes might begin on-site this fall, excitement and promise build for young adults and people of all ages in Bethlehem and beyond for a brighter future.
The newsletter reports:
Computer classes, field trips, yoga sessions and lectures from local spiritual leaders and social care professionals are just a few of the activities available to participants in the Bright Stars, Azwaj and Ajyal programs run by the Diyar Consortium in Bethlehem.
The Bright Stars Program provides opportunities for self-discovery and skill development for over 500 children and youth, ages 6-16, through its after-school programs, Friday clubs and Summer Academy. By giving students a variety of options and allowing them to try different activities and choose for themselves what they would like to do, the Bright Stars Program is helping children develop a sense of self and the feeling that they play a role in determining their future - http://www.brightstarsbethlehem.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=52&Itemid=68
The Azwaj Program for young families focuses on education, spirituality and recreation for 18 young couples and families with young children. With the usual challenges of parenting and the added pressures of living in a city surrounded by a 25-foot-high concrete wall, parents in Bethlehem need extra support and opportunities to give their families a more “normal” life. The Azwaj Program is combating Christian emigration by making it more possible for families to stay in Palestine - http://www.brightstarsbethlehem.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=53&Itemid=69
The Ajyal Elder Care Program cares for the physical, social and spiritual well-being of 500 senior citizens in the Bethlehem area. Care strategies are tailored to the activity level of the seniors themselves – there are the “go-go”s, the “slow-go”s and the “no-go”s – with community activities and group meals for the more active members and mobile nursing care for those who are home-bound. With traditional family structures shifting and many seniors needing extra support, the Ajyal community helps seniors believe in “life after 55 that is worth living” - http://www.brightstarsbethlehem.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=54&Itemid=71
Together, the Bright Stars Program, Azwaj and Ajyal make up the new cluster of ministries called “Dar al-Kalima Community Building”. The programs themselves have been operating for several years, but have been newly grouped together through the recent restructuring of the Diyar Consortium - http://www.diyar-consortium.org/ - (the collective name for Dar Annadwa, Dar al-Kalima Health & Wellness, Dar al-Kalima College and Dar al-Balad). Raida Mansour, previously the manager of the Ajyal program, is now the manager of the entire cluster of programs. Her sincere love of God and sense of call shines through in her commitment to doing God's work in her community, serving the underserved and helping people live abundant lives.
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Friday, April 30, 2010
CMEP's Warren Clark points to `A Turning Point'
From the Desk of Warren Clark
A Turning Point
In recent days there have been significant developments in efforts to re-launch Israel-Palestinian peace talks that have been suspended since late 2008.
Last week envoys from the White House National Security Council and the office of Senator Mitchell traveled to Jerusalem and met with Israeli and Palestinian authorities. They received whatever assurances were needed from the two sides to permit Senator George Mitchell to return late in the week. After Mitchell met with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Abbas, he reportedly issued them each invitations to start "proximity" talks in two weeks.
If talks start soon, as expected, this will be a significant accomplishment for Mitchell's quiet and persistent diplomacy. After false starts and months of negotiation, talks were almost launched in early March, only to be derailed by the Israeli announcement of plans for 1,600 new housing units in East Jerusalem. While Netanyahu has said he will not rescind the building permits issued or promise to freeze all new construction in East Jerusalem, in fact no new permits have been issued. There is a de facto freeze on new construction in East Jerusalem, at least for now.
Direct talks will be needed eventually, but indirect talks were needed now to reassure the Palestinians, and they have some advantages. Direct talks took place on and off for 18 years while Israeli housing and infrastructure expanded into Palestinian territories occupied by Israel in 1967. As a result Palestinians have insisted they would not enter into negotiations now as long as the housing expansion continues. Prime Minister Netanyahu was not willing (or able) to say he would freeze new construction in East Jerusalem. Indirect talks are a way to address Palestinian and Arab concerns by putting the U.S. in the middle. The U.S. will then be directly wedded to the negotiating process and in a position to make suggestions, help work around problems, and hold both sides accountable for answers to proposals.
Many tensions remain. The longer the de facto Israeli freeze remains on new Israeli housing in East Jerusalem, the greater the political pressure will build on Prime Mister Netanyahu from right wing parties in his coalition to allow construction to go ahead. The Mayor of Jerusalem keeps saying that new construction will go forward. Palestinians will remain under pressure from Arab states to cut off talks if new Israeli construction in East Jerusalem goes forward.
Eventually, a political realignment of the Israeli coalition government may be required for further progress. This might well require the exit of right wing parties from the present coalition and the addition of the Kadima party, headed by Tzipi Livni, currently the leader of the opposition in the Knesset. Livni has said she will only join or lead a government that is serious about negotiations leading to creation of a Palestinian state -- the two state solution.
Join CMEP's Facebook Group!
Come to the 2010 Advocacy Conference!
Donate: Help strengthen CMEP's advocacy efforts.
Sign-up for CMEP updates: Join CMEP's e-advocacy list to receive our regular updates and alerts.
Visit the CMEP website: Learn more about our work and how to get involved
Churches for Middle East Peace
Email: info@cmep.org
Phone: 202-543-1222
Web: http://www.cmep.org/
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
A Turning Point
In recent days there have been significant developments in efforts to re-launch Israel-Palestinian peace talks that have been suspended since late 2008.
Last week envoys from the White House National Security Council and the office of Senator Mitchell traveled to Jerusalem and met with Israeli and Palestinian authorities. They received whatever assurances were needed from the two sides to permit Senator George Mitchell to return late in the week. After Mitchell met with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Abbas, he reportedly issued them each invitations to start "proximity" talks in two weeks.
If talks start soon, as expected, this will be a significant accomplishment for Mitchell's quiet and persistent diplomacy. After false starts and months of negotiation, talks were almost launched in early March, only to be derailed by the Israeli announcement of plans for 1,600 new housing units in East Jerusalem. While Netanyahu has said he will not rescind the building permits issued or promise to freeze all new construction in East Jerusalem, in fact no new permits have been issued. There is a de facto freeze on new construction in East Jerusalem, at least for now.
Direct talks will be needed eventually, but indirect talks were needed now to reassure the Palestinians, and they have some advantages. Direct talks took place on and off for 18 years while Israeli housing and infrastructure expanded into Palestinian territories occupied by Israel in 1967. As a result Palestinians have insisted they would not enter into negotiations now as long as the housing expansion continues. Prime Minister Netanyahu was not willing (or able) to say he would freeze new construction in East Jerusalem. Indirect talks are a way to address Palestinian and Arab concerns by putting the U.S. in the middle. The U.S. will then be directly wedded to the negotiating process and in a position to make suggestions, help work around problems, and hold both sides accountable for answers to proposals.
Many tensions remain. The longer the de facto Israeli freeze remains on new Israeli housing in East Jerusalem, the greater the political pressure will build on Prime Mister Netanyahu from right wing parties in his coalition to allow construction to go ahead. The Mayor of Jerusalem keeps saying that new construction will go forward. Palestinians will remain under pressure from Arab states to cut off talks if new Israeli construction in East Jerusalem goes forward.
Eventually, a political realignment of the Israeli coalition government may be required for further progress. This might well require the exit of right wing parties from the present coalition and the addition of the Kadima party, headed by Tzipi Livni, currently the leader of the opposition in the Knesset. Livni has said she will only join or lead a government that is serious about negotiations leading to creation of a Palestinian state -- the two state solution.
Join CMEP's Facebook Group!
Come to the 2010 Advocacy Conference!
Donate: Help strengthen CMEP's advocacy efforts.
Sign-up for CMEP updates: Join CMEP's e-advocacy list to receive our regular updates and alerts.
Visit the CMEP website: Learn more about our work and how to get involved
Churches for Middle East Peace
Email: info@cmep.org
Phone: 202-543-1222
Web: http://www.cmep.org/
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Tens of thousands of Palestinians in the West Bank to be catagorized as `infiltrators'
A message from the World Council of Churches' Palestine-Israel Ecumenical Forum, located at this website: http://www.oikoumene.org/programmes/public-witness-addressing-power-affirming-peace/churches-in-the-middle-east/pief/news-events/alerts/pief-alert-thousands-of-palestinians-categorized-as-infiltrators.html
Dear friends,
We are writing to you on a matter of great urgency.
The Israeli military has issued an amendment to an order, effective as of 13 April 2010, that will categorize tens of thousands of Palestinians living in the West Bank as “infiltrators.” Their target is those who lack proper residence permits.
The order is a flagrant display of military arrogance and will reduce thousands of people to “illegal aliens” in their own homes. It will also confine Palestinians to their villages and further sever them from vital economic, health, education, and social centers. Palestinians found in contravention of the order could be subject to almost immediate deportation or jail terms of up to seven years.
Richard Falk, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights on Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, warned this Monday, 19 April 2010 that “two Israeli Defense Forces Military Orders may be in breach of the fourth Geneva Convention and violate the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights”. [http://www.ohchr.org/en/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=9971&LangID=E]
He noted that “a wide range of violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law could be linked to actions carried out by the Government of Israel under these Orders, with particular gravity in the event that young persons become victims of their application.” Israel is party to the fourth Geneva Convention that prohibits “individual or mass forcible transfers, as well as deportations of protected persons from occupied territory to the territory of the Occupying Power or to that of any other country .... regardless of their motive.”
Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum (PIEF - http://www.oikoumene.org/programmes/public-witness-addressing-power-affirming-peace/churches-in-the-middle-east/pief/pief-home.html) joins Kairos Palestine (http://www.kairospalestine.ps/) in condemning this action and strongly supports their call to “churches worldwide to publically demand the revocation of the order”. In support of the Kairos Palestine initiative, PIEF asks churches and the wider international to:
- Write to relevant Israeli officials and denounce the military order and demand its immediate reversal;
- Inform the wider public in their different communities, networks and the media about these inhumane actions.
Please read the statement from Kairos Palestine - http://www.kairospalestine.ps/sites/default/Documents/Kairos%20statement%20on%20the%20new%20Israeli%20military%20order.doc - on the new military order which describes its provisions as well as the actions they suggest you may take. We urge you to act rapidly and demonstrate to Israeli authorities that the international community is alert to their arbitrary and inhumane actions.
Michel Nseir
Programme Executive
Public witness programme
Special focus on the Middle East
World Council of churches
Read more:
Israeli military orders “in breach of international human rights law,” warns UN Special Rapporteur (website of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights - OHCHR)http://www.oikoumene.org/index.php?id=7821&rid=P_570&mid=2084&aC=2cd2e853&jumpurl=1
The Kairos Palestine statement "New Military Order “Infiltrates” Palestinian Rights" (Word)http://www.oikoumene.org/index.php?id=7821&rid=P_570&mid=2084&aC=2cd2e853&jumpurl=3
More on the Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum (PIEF):http://www.oikoumene.org/index.php?id=7821&rid=P_570&mid=2084&aC=2cd2e853&jumpurl=0
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Dear friends,
We are writing to you on a matter of great urgency.
The Israeli military has issued an amendment to an order, effective as of 13 April 2010, that will categorize tens of thousands of Palestinians living in the West Bank as “infiltrators.” Their target is those who lack proper residence permits.
The order is a flagrant display of military arrogance and will reduce thousands of people to “illegal aliens” in their own homes. It will also confine Palestinians to their villages and further sever them from vital economic, health, education, and social centers. Palestinians found in contravention of the order could be subject to almost immediate deportation or jail terms of up to seven years.
Richard Falk, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights on Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, warned this Monday, 19 April 2010 that “two Israeli Defense Forces Military Orders may be in breach of the fourth Geneva Convention and violate the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights”. [http://www.ohchr.org/en/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=9971&LangID=E]
He noted that “a wide range of violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law could be linked to actions carried out by the Government of Israel under these Orders, with particular gravity in the event that young persons become victims of their application.” Israel is party to the fourth Geneva Convention that prohibits “individual or mass forcible transfers, as well as deportations of protected persons from occupied territory to the territory of the Occupying Power or to that of any other country .... regardless of their motive.”
Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum (PIEF - http://www.oikoumene.org/programmes/public-witness-addressing-power-affirming-peace/churches-in-the-middle-east/pief/pief-home.html) joins Kairos Palestine (http://www.kairospalestine.ps/) in condemning this action and strongly supports their call to “churches worldwide to publically demand the revocation of the order”. In support of the Kairos Palestine initiative, PIEF asks churches and the wider international to:
- Write to relevant Israeli officials and denounce the military order and demand its immediate reversal;
- Inform the wider public in their different communities, networks and the media about these inhumane actions.
Please read the statement from Kairos Palestine - http://www.kairospalestine.ps/sites/default/Documents/Kairos%20statement%20on%20the%20new%20Israeli%20military%20order.doc - on the new military order which describes its provisions as well as the actions they suggest you may take. We urge you to act rapidly and demonstrate to Israeli authorities that the international community is alert to their arbitrary and inhumane actions.
Michel Nseir
Programme Executive
Public witness programme
Special focus on the Middle East
World Council of churches
Read more:
Israeli military orders “in breach of international human rights law,” warns UN Special Rapporteur (website of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights - OHCHR)http://www.oikoumene.org/index.php?id=7821&rid=P_570&mid=2084&aC=2cd2e853&jumpurl=1
The Kairos Palestine statement "New Military Order “Infiltrates” Palestinian Rights" (Word)http://www.oikoumene.org/index.php?id=7821&rid=P_570&mid=2084&aC=2cd2e853&jumpurl=3
More on the Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum (PIEF):http://www.oikoumene.org/index.php?id=7821&rid=P_570&mid=2084&aC=2cd2e853&jumpurl=0
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
The Struggle for Jerusalem, by CMEP's Warren Clark
The Struggle for Jerusalem, Churches for Middle East Peace newsletter
By Warren Clark, Executive Director
View the full newsletter: http://www.cmep.org/newsletter/march2010.pdf
March 2010
A New Ballgame
Efforts by the Obama administration to get Israel and the Palestinians started down the path to a negotiated agreement took a sudden and unforeseen shift in March. Earlier this year Senator Mitchell orchestrated a deliberate process to bring the two sides together in "proximity" talks in which Mitchell would shuttle between the two sides. President Obama was kept at a safe political distance. All this was suddenly disrupted March 9 during a visit to Israel by the Vice President by the announcement that 1,600 new Israeli housing units were to be built in East Jerusalem.
This action seemed to undercut the whole idea of holding negotiations to decide about issues that include borders and the status of Jerusalem. The Secretary of State questioned whether the Netanyahu government was sincere about seeking an agreement.
When the President met in Washington with Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu he apparently asked directly for the suspension of further new housing construction in East Jerusalem as a way of getting talks started.
The direct involvement of the President in negotiations is a game changing event. Israel asserts it has a right to build housing in East Jerusalem, but that right was asserted unilaterally with the reluctant political acquiescence of the United States. Any tacit U.S. support for new construction evaporated in Washington on March 23 when Prime Minster Netanyahu and President Obama failed to agree on a way around U.S. opposition. It will be very hard now for the Prime Minister to bridge the differences between those in his coalition who insist on continuing expansion into Palestinian territories and the U.S. demand that new construction be suspended.
Jerusalem
Without Jerusalem there might not be a Palestinian conflict. It is not only the center of local political power but of course is part of the DNA of the three great Abrahamic faiths. The Old City and its holy places are deeply associated with Christian, Jewish and Muslim identity. Any real or perceived challenge to them can lead to violence. Right wing Christian groups sometimes threaten to replace Muslim holy places. Many believe Ariel Sharon’s visit to the Temple Mount with armed escorts in September 2000 contributed to the beginning of the disastrous second intifada.
Prime Minister Netanyahu asserts that Jerusalem is the “undivided and eternal capital of Israel.” Palestinians, with backing from Arabs and Muslims worldwide, insist that East Jerusalem must be the capital of a Palestinian state.
These two positions are not necessarily incompatible. There are in fact several Jerusalems. There is the 10thCentury BCE “City of David” in the Palestinian neighborhood of Silwan, and the 12th century crusader Jerusalem with walls that enclose the one kilometer square “Old City” with its holy sites. The modern municipal borders in 1967 were expanded by Israel to include not only the 2.7 square miles of Arab East Jerusalem but 24 square miles of land to the northeast that included 26 Palestinian villages and neighborhoods.
Read the full newsletter at this link: http://www.cmep.org/newsletter/march2010.pdf
Churches for Middle East Peace
Email: info@cmep.org
Phone: 202-543-1222
Web: http://www.cmep.org/
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
By Warren Clark, Executive Director
View the full newsletter: http://www.cmep.org/newsletter/march2010.pdf
March 2010
A New Ballgame
Efforts by the Obama administration to get Israel and the Palestinians started down the path to a negotiated agreement took a sudden and unforeseen shift in March. Earlier this year Senator Mitchell orchestrated a deliberate process to bring the two sides together in "proximity" talks in which Mitchell would shuttle between the two sides. President Obama was kept at a safe political distance. All this was suddenly disrupted March 9 during a visit to Israel by the Vice President by the announcement that 1,600 new Israeli housing units were to be built in East Jerusalem.
This action seemed to undercut the whole idea of holding negotiations to decide about issues that include borders and the status of Jerusalem. The Secretary of State questioned whether the Netanyahu government was sincere about seeking an agreement.
When the President met in Washington with Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu he apparently asked directly for the suspension of further new housing construction in East Jerusalem as a way of getting talks started.
The direct involvement of the President in negotiations is a game changing event. Israel asserts it has a right to build housing in East Jerusalem, but that right was asserted unilaterally with the reluctant political acquiescence of the United States. Any tacit U.S. support for new construction evaporated in Washington on March 23 when Prime Minster Netanyahu and President Obama failed to agree on a way around U.S. opposition. It will be very hard now for the Prime Minister to bridge the differences between those in his coalition who insist on continuing expansion into Palestinian territories and the U.S. demand that new construction be suspended.
Jerusalem
Without Jerusalem there might not be a Palestinian conflict. It is not only the center of local political power but of course is part of the DNA of the three great Abrahamic faiths. The Old City and its holy places are deeply associated with Christian, Jewish and Muslim identity. Any real or perceived challenge to them can lead to violence. Right wing Christian groups sometimes threaten to replace Muslim holy places. Many believe Ariel Sharon’s visit to the Temple Mount with armed escorts in September 2000 contributed to the beginning of the disastrous second intifada.
Prime Minister Netanyahu asserts that Jerusalem is the “undivided and eternal capital of Israel.” Palestinians, with backing from Arabs and Muslims worldwide, insist that East Jerusalem must be the capital of a Palestinian state.
These two positions are not necessarily incompatible. There are in fact several Jerusalems. There is the 10thCentury BCE “City of David” in the Palestinian neighborhood of Silwan, and the 12th century crusader Jerusalem with walls that enclose the one kilometer square “Old City” with its holy sites. The modern municipal borders in 1967 were expanded by Israel to include not only the 2.7 square miles of Arab East Jerusalem but 24 square miles of land to the northeast that included 26 Palestinian villages and neighborhoods.
Read the full newsletter at this link: http://www.cmep.org/newsletter/march2010.pdf
Churches for Middle East Peace
Email: info@cmep.org
Phone: 202-543-1222
Web: http://www.cmep.org/
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Thursday, April 15, 2010
New order: Israeli army could deport thousands of Palestinians
This memo came through the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel.
New order could see Israeli army deport thousands of Palestinians.
Human rights groups have strongly rejected a new order defining thousands of West Bank Palestinians as "illegal" and "infiltrators." The orders potentially give Israeli military commanders the ability to deport to the Gaza Strip or Arab countries from which they originate, even if they entered the area legally and have lived there for many years. This could include thousands of Palestinians.
The orders, once they come into effect, essentially place thousands of Palestinians as well as foreign nationals at risk of criminal prosecution and deportation, without adequate legal review or appeal, should they fail to produce on request a permit issued by the military commander.
Given the sweeping and arbitrary nature of these orders, several organizations - including HaMoked, ACRI, Bimkom, B’Tselem, the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel, Yesh Din, Adalah, Rabbis for Human Rights and Physicians for Human Rights - have formally called on the Minister of Defense to delay, as a matter of urgency, their entry into force.
You can find further information about the orders (including English translations) and their implications (including the joint NGO letter to the Minister of Defense) on Hamoked’s website at this link: http://hamoked.org.il/news_main_en.asp?id=904
According to the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs:
Some court cases may be pending in the next few days to suspend implementation of the new law, the enforcement of which will likely be at checkpoints. The number of possible expulsions ranges from 70,000–125,000.
The new military order aimed at preventing “infiltration” into the West Bank will come into force this week; it puts under the sole jurisdiction of Israeli military courts those who are likely to be targeted by the new order [i.e., those whose ID cards bear home addresses in the Gaza Strip—people born in Gaza and their West Bank-born children—or those born in the West Bank or abroad who for various reasons lost their residency status and also foreign-born spouses of Palestinians].
The new order defines anyone who enters the West Bank illegally as an infiltrator, as well as “a person who is present in the area and does not lawfully hold a permit.” The order takes the original 1969 definition of infiltrator to the extreme, as the term originally applied only to those illegally staying in Israel after having passed through countries then classified as enemy states—Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria...The order’s language is both general and ambiguous, stipulating that the term infiltrator will also be applied to Palestinian residents of Jerusalem, citizens of countries with which Israel has friendly ties (such as the United States) and Israeli citizens, whether Arab or Jewish. All this depends on the judgment of Israel Defense Forces commanders in the field.
Palestinian political groups Islamic Jihad, Fatah, PLO condemn the new military orders:
"Chief PLO negotiator Saeb Erekat and Fatah Central Committee leader Nabil Sha’ath issued their own condemnations of the orders, with Erekat calling them “an assault on ordinary Palestinians, and an affront to the most fundamental principles of human rights,” and the tools of an “apartheid state.” See the article: http://www.maannews.net/eng/ViewDetails.aspx?ID=275630
Amira Hass writes in Ha'aretz:
"A new military order aimed at preventing infiltration will come into force this week, enabling the deportation of tens of thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank, or their indictment on charges carrying prison terms of up to seven years.
"When the order comes into effect, tens of thousands of Palestinians will automatically become criminal offenders liable to be severely punished.
"Given the security authorities’ actions over the past decade, the first Palestinians likely to be targeted under the new rules will be those whose ID cards bear home addresses in the Gaza Strip - people born in Gaza and their West Bank-born children - or those born in the West Bank or abroad who for various reasons lost their residency status. Also likely to be targeted are foreign-born spouses of Palestinians.
"Until now, Israeli civil courts have occasionally prevented the expulsion of these three groups from the West Bank. The new order, however, puts them under the sole jurisdiction of Israeli military courts." See the full article at this link: http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1162075.html
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
New order could see Israeli army deport thousands of Palestinians.
Human rights groups have strongly rejected a new order defining thousands of West Bank Palestinians as "illegal" and "infiltrators." The orders potentially give Israeli military commanders the ability to deport to the Gaza Strip or Arab countries from which they originate, even if they entered the area legally and have lived there for many years. This could include thousands of Palestinians.
The orders, once they come into effect, essentially place thousands of Palestinians as well as foreign nationals at risk of criminal prosecution and deportation, without adequate legal review or appeal, should they fail to produce on request a permit issued by the military commander.
Given the sweeping and arbitrary nature of these orders, several organizations - including HaMoked, ACRI, Bimkom, B’Tselem, the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel, Yesh Din, Adalah, Rabbis for Human Rights and Physicians for Human Rights - have formally called on the Minister of Defense to delay, as a matter of urgency, their entry into force.
You can find further information about the orders (including English translations) and their implications (including the joint NGO letter to the Minister of Defense) on Hamoked’s website at this link: http://hamoked.org.il/news_main_en.asp?id=904
According to the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs:
Some court cases may be pending in the next few days to suspend implementation of the new law, the enforcement of which will likely be at checkpoints. The number of possible expulsions ranges from 70,000–125,000.
The new military order aimed at preventing “infiltration” into the West Bank will come into force this week; it puts under the sole jurisdiction of Israeli military courts those who are likely to be targeted by the new order [i.e., those whose ID cards bear home addresses in the Gaza Strip—people born in Gaza and their West Bank-born children—or those born in the West Bank or abroad who for various reasons lost their residency status and also foreign-born spouses of Palestinians].
The new order defines anyone who enters the West Bank illegally as an infiltrator, as well as “a person who is present in the area and does not lawfully hold a permit.” The order takes the original 1969 definition of infiltrator to the extreme, as the term originally applied only to those illegally staying in Israel after having passed through countries then classified as enemy states—Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria...The order’s language is both general and ambiguous, stipulating that the term infiltrator will also be applied to Palestinian residents of Jerusalem, citizens of countries with which Israel has friendly ties (such as the United States) and Israeli citizens, whether Arab or Jewish. All this depends on the judgment of Israel Defense Forces commanders in the field.
Palestinian political groups Islamic Jihad, Fatah, PLO condemn the new military orders:
"Chief PLO negotiator Saeb Erekat and Fatah Central Committee leader Nabil Sha’ath issued their own condemnations of the orders, with Erekat calling them “an assault on ordinary Palestinians, and an affront to the most fundamental principles of human rights,” and the tools of an “apartheid state.” See the article: http://www.maannews.net/eng/ViewDetails.aspx?ID=275630
Amira Hass writes in Ha'aretz:
"A new military order aimed at preventing infiltration will come into force this week, enabling the deportation of tens of thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank, or their indictment on charges carrying prison terms of up to seven years.
"When the order comes into effect, tens of thousands of Palestinians will automatically become criminal offenders liable to be severely punished.
"Given the security authorities’ actions over the past decade, the first Palestinians likely to be targeted under the new rules will be those whose ID cards bear home addresses in the Gaza Strip - people born in Gaza and their West Bank-born children - or those born in the West Bank or abroad who for various reasons lost their residency status. Also likely to be targeted are foreign-born spouses of Palestinians.
"Until now, Israeli civil courts have occasionally prevented the expulsion of these three groups from the West Bank. The new order, however, puts them under the sole jurisdiction of Israeli military courts." See the full article at this link: http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1162075.html
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Monday, April 12, 2010
Israeli settlers assaulted Ecumenical Accompaniers
East Jerusalem tension has hardened in Sheikh Jarrah.
Hardline Israeli settler youths assaulted three female Ecumenical Accompaniers (EAs) in Jerusalem on Monday, hurling rocks and bottles in an unprovoked attack. For the full report and links, go to http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4566/settlers-attack-eas-with.html
One accompanier in her sixties was bruised on the arm when one of the young men threw a fist-sized rock at her. The group of around eight young men approached the women, shouting obscenities and making rude gestures.
The EAs filmed the incident and it can be viewed on Youtube - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPm1AQqF77M
On Tuesday last week, four of the settlers that appear in the video clip were banned for a month from Sheikh Jarrah. the Israeli courts gave two more families in Sheikh Jarrah a month's notice to leave their houses. This would bring the number of evicted families to five, including dozens of individuals, many of them children.
For much more about the tension and injustice in Sheikh Jarrah, see the United Nations OCHA website, "Special Focus : The Planning Crisis in East Jerusalem, April 2009" - http://www.ochaopt.org/documents/ocha_opt_planning_crisis_east_jerusalem_april_2009_english.pdf
And from MIFTA, the Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy, "In East Jerusalem, a Defining Battle Over Palestinian Ownership in Sheikh Jarrah" - http://www.miftah.org/Display.cfm?DocId=21710&CategoryId=5
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Hardline Israeli settler youths assaulted three female Ecumenical Accompaniers (EAs) in Jerusalem on Monday, hurling rocks and bottles in an unprovoked attack. For the full report and links, go to http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4566/settlers-attack-eas-with.html
One accompanier in her sixties was bruised on the arm when one of the young men threw a fist-sized rock at her. The group of around eight young men approached the women, shouting obscenities and making rude gestures.
The EAs filmed the incident and it can be viewed on Youtube - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPm1AQqF77M
On Tuesday last week, four of the settlers that appear in the video clip were banned for a month from Sheikh Jarrah. the Israeli courts gave two more families in Sheikh Jarrah a month's notice to leave their houses. This would bring the number of evicted families to five, including dozens of individuals, many of them children.
For much more about the tension and injustice in Sheikh Jarrah, see the United Nations OCHA website, "Special Focus : The Planning Crisis in East Jerusalem, April 2009" - http://www.ochaopt.org/documents/ocha_opt_planning_crisis_east_jerusalem_april_2009_english.pdf
And from MIFTA, the Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy, "In East Jerusalem, a Defining Battle Over Palestinian Ownership in Sheikh Jarrah" - http://www.miftah.org/Display.cfm?DocId=21710&CategoryId=5
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
Monday, April 5, 2010
EAPPI Easter greeting: Kairos Palestine a message of hope
A message of hope in a time of suffering
"We see a determination among many to overcome the resentments of the past and to be ready for reconciliation once justice has been restored." A Moment of Truth - the Palestine Kairos Document, 3.3.4 [http://www.kairospalestine.ps/]
Greetings from Jerusalem.
Here in the holy city of the three Abrahamic faiths, Palestinian Christians and international pilgrims are joining with their brethren from around the world to celebrate Holy Week. Easter is the most important festival in the Christian calendar, reminding us of God's love, the value of forgiveness and the hope of redemption.
For Palestinians this is also a time of sadness as they witness the occupation eating up the land and further restricting their rights. Palestinian Christians, after hundreds of years of celebrating their most significant annual festival in Jerusalem, are being denied freedom of worship this Easter as the Israeli grip on the city tightens - http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4834/holy-land-christians-resp.html
Yet in response to the call for "loving resistance" in the Palestine Kairos document issued in December last year, Palm Sunday witnessed an extraordinary celebration in Bethlehem.
A group of Palestinian, Israeli and international activists, holding palm branches, simply walked through the main checkpoint in the Wall cutting Bethlehem off from Jerusalem. Soldiers at the checkpoint were caught off guard and the demonstration managed to move right past them. Several activists were later arrested.
EAPPI saw it all. Click here to read the story in full - http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4834/defying-the-wall-palm-su.html
...or here to watch a video of it - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1uBMnPBFCQ
A message from Jerusalem's Christians
As Easter draws close, Christians in the Holy Land have been encouraged to persevere in their faith. Thirteen Heads of Churches in Jerusalem issued an Easter message of hope and encouragement, acknowledging that the Church "faces struggles here in this land."
"We know the power of God to bring hope out of despair," they said. "We know the power of God in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior, to use forgiveness and love to conquer evil. We know the power of the forgiveness of sins to redeem relationships in families and among the family of nations."
Meanwhile, the liberation theology centre Sabeel issued a prayer for peace with justice.
"In this Easter season, pilgrims from around the world come to Jerusalem to mark the death and celebrate the resurrection of Christ. We pray that the people visiting this land will remember the powerful message of love and nonviolence demonstrated by Jesus," it said.
The Sabeel statement also welcomed the 35th group of Ecumenical Accompaniers who began their service on Palm Sunday.
Easter updates from EAPPI
EAPPI’s main website is http://www.eappi.org/, but our sending organizations also run EAPPI blogs in Germany, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United States [http://www.eappi-us.org/].
EAPPI has now launched a Youtube service [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4diCDyZ-1I] with a video on house demolitions in Jerusalem.
In Hebron, an Ecumenical Accompanier was able to grab a few minutes for an exclusive interview with veteran Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FlUyHr5fWU].
Channel 4's recent documentary on the children of Gaza is also worth watching [http://palestinevideo.blogspot.com/2010/03/dispatches-children-of-gaza-2010.html].
And as always, the EAPPI website offers you the latest human stories from the ground. Recent Eyewitness reports include the story of a PLO militant turned non-violent activist, how West Bank checkpoints are being privatized, and the tale of a Bedouin community surviving in the
South Hebron Hills - just.
Read all of this and more at http://www.eappi.org/.
An Easter Prayer
During this Holy Week, together with all Christians throughout the world, we pray that Jesus, crucified and risen, will give hope to all who live in fear; and to nourish with His eternal bread those who hunger for freedom, justice and peace.
EAPPI wishes you and yours a happy and blessed Easter/Pesach.
Sign up to instant updates from EAPPI at www.twitter.com/eappi and join our Facebook Group at http://bit.ly/eappi-facebook or by searching for “EAPPI”.
"We see a determination among many to overcome the resentments of the past and to be ready for reconciliation once justice has been restored." A Moment of Truth - the Palestine Kairos Document, 3.3.4 [http://www.kairospalestine.ps/]
Greetings from Jerusalem.
Here in the holy city of the three Abrahamic faiths, Palestinian Christians and international pilgrims are joining with their brethren from around the world to celebrate Holy Week. Easter is the most important festival in the Christian calendar, reminding us of God's love, the value of forgiveness and the hope of redemption.
For Palestinians this is also a time of sadness as they witness the occupation eating up the land and further restricting their rights. Palestinian Christians, after hundreds of years of celebrating their most significant annual festival in Jerusalem, are being denied freedom of worship this Easter as the Israeli grip on the city tightens - http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4834/holy-land-christians-resp.html
Yet in response to the call for "loving resistance" in the Palestine Kairos document issued in December last year, Palm Sunday witnessed an extraordinary celebration in Bethlehem.
A group of Palestinian, Israeli and international activists, holding palm branches, simply walked through the main checkpoint in the Wall cutting Bethlehem off from Jerusalem. Soldiers at the checkpoint were caught off guard and the demonstration managed to move right past them. Several activists were later arrested.
EAPPI saw it all. Click here to read the story in full - http://www.eappi.org/en/news/eappi-news/se/article/4834/defying-the-wall-palm-su.html
...or here to watch a video of it - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1uBMnPBFCQ
A message from Jerusalem's Christians
As Easter draws close, Christians in the Holy Land have been encouraged to persevere in their faith. Thirteen Heads of Churches in Jerusalem issued an Easter message of hope and encouragement, acknowledging that the Church "faces struggles here in this land."
"We know the power of God to bring hope out of despair," they said. "We know the power of God in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior, to use forgiveness and love to conquer evil. We know the power of the forgiveness of sins to redeem relationships in families and among the family of nations."
Meanwhile, the liberation theology centre Sabeel issued a prayer for peace with justice.
"In this Easter season, pilgrims from around the world come to Jerusalem to mark the death and celebrate the resurrection of Christ. We pray that the people visiting this land will remember the powerful message of love and nonviolence demonstrated by Jesus," it said.
The Sabeel statement also welcomed the 35th group of Ecumenical Accompaniers who began their service on Palm Sunday.
Easter updates from EAPPI
EAPPI’s main website is http://www.eappi.org/, but our sending organizations also run EAPPI blogs in Germany, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United States [http://www.eappi-us.org/].
EAPPI has now launched a Youtube service [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4diCDyZ-1I] with a video on house demolitions in Jerusalem.
In Hebron, an Ecumenical Accompanier was able to grab a few minutes for an exclusive interview with veteran Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FlUyHr5fWU].
Channel 4's recent documentary on the children of Gaza is also worth watching [http://palestinevideo.blogspot.com/2010/03/dispatches-children-of-gaza-2010.html].
And as always, the EAPPI website offers you the latest human stories from the ground. Recent Eyewitness reports include the story of a PLO militant turned non-violent activist, how West Bank checkpoints are being privatized, and the tale of a Bedouin community surviving in the
South Hebron Hills - just.
Read all of this and more at http://www.eappi.org/.
An Easter Prayer
During this Holy Week, together with all Christians throughout the world, we pray that Jesus, crucified and risen, will give hope to all who live in fear; and to nourish with His eternal bread those who hunger for freedom, justice and peace.
EAPPI wishes you and yours a happy and blessed Easter/Pesach.
Sign up to instant updates from EAPPI at www.twitter.com/eappi and join our Facebook Group at http://bit.ly/eappi-facebook or by searching for “EAPPI”.
--- --- ---
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
To receive regular bulletins from Ann Hafften, sign up at the blog A Texas Lutheran's Voice for Peace: http://www.voicesforpeace.blogspot.com/
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