Israel Palestine
Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, struggles for land and property rights have characterized this Biblical land. Wars fought in 1948, 1956, 1967, and 1973 caused a significant number of Palestinians to be displaced from their homes. In some cases, people were displaced more than once. Despite peace agreements between Israel and Egypt, and Israel and Jordan, Israeli-Palestinian efforts to solve this long-standing conflict have thus far not achieved a lasting resolution of the major issues of Jerusalem’s status, Jewish settlements, sovereignty, and refugees, all of which remain divisive. Local and international, including U.S. and church supported, efforts to end Israeli occupation and create a just two-state solution remain key to future peace and development throughout the region, yet continue to suffer political obstacles and tragic violence. Pray for: The spirit of justice and peace as political leaders discuss, debate, and negotiate the future of these lands, and as Israelis and Palestinians continue to live as apprehensive neighbors. The churches of these lands, especially as the Christian population diminishes. The MECC’s Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees, the Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center, the YWCA and YMCA, Rawdat El-Zahur primary school, and the many courageous individuals who speak out about the situation from their deep faith. Mission Personnel Catherine Nichols Program Associate in interpretation and writing for Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center in Jerusalem Marla Schrader Responsible for travel and pilgrimage facilitation and supporting the ministry of Mrs. Jean Zaru, a Palestinian Quaker who does much to interpret the reality of occupation. Partners Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center East Jerusalem YMCA YWCA of Palestine Rawdat el-Zuhur School
Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, struggles for land and property rights have characterized this Biblical land. Wars fought in 1948, 1956, 1967, and 1973 caused a significant number of Palestinians to be displaced from their homes. In some cases, people were displaced more than once. Despite peace agreements between Israel and Egypt, and Israel and Jordan, Israeli-Palestinian efforts to solve this long-standing conflict have thus far not achieved a lasting resolution of the major issues of Jerusalem’s status, Jewish settlements, sovereignty, and refugees, all of which remain divisive. Local and international, including U.S. and church supported, efforts to end Israeli occupation and create a just two-state solution remain key to future peace and development throughout the region, yet continue to suffer political obstacles and tragic violence.
Israel is located in Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Lebanon.
Pray for: The spirit of justice and peace as political leaders discuss, debate, and negotiate the future of these lands, and as Israelis and Palestinians continue to live as apprehensive neighbors.
The churches of these lands, especially as the Christian population diminishes.
The MECC’s Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees, the Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center, the YWCA and YMCA, Rawdat El-Zahur primary school, and the many courageous individuals who speak out about the situation from their deep faith.
