We thank God for the small but
important changes we are seeing in official policy and public perceptions of
the Israel/Palestine conflict. A recent visit to the area by a representative
of Churches for Middle East Peace—an American advocacy organization—highlighted
some critical changes taking place in the United States. Reports from around
the world demonstrate growing concern over settlement expansion, Israel’s attack and siege on Gaza, and home demolitions. We pray that
these sentiments will help result in further action and a just peace.
We pray that Israeli forces will
cease their unnecessary opposition to activities celebrating Jerusalem’s role as the 2009 Capital of Arab
Culture. This past weekend’s arrests of children, clowns, and community
organizers demonstrate a full-on assault on these celebrations of Arab culture.
We pray that Israel will
come to recognize the importance of Jerusalem
for all and embrace the cultural contributions of Arabs to this region and the
world.
Israel has recently begun
tightening its already prohibitive visa regulations. This places the work of
hundreds of international volunteers in great jeopardy. We pray that Israel will
loosen its visa restrictions so that people from around the world can continue
to partner with Palestinians and Israelis in working towards a just peace for
all the people of this region.
This Friday, Sabeel will hold a dinner to
raise funds for the young adult program’s new campaign to promote ecumenism
amongst Palestinian Christians. We pray that new friendships will be formed at
the dinner and that the message of the campaign will be met with openness and
enthusiasm.
As Jerusalem
readies itself for Holy Week activities, we pray for cooperation and goodwill
among the region’s various denominations. We hope that Easter can be a time of
unity for Christians in Jerusalem
and around the world. We pray that the risen Christ’s message of peace will
inspire us all this Easter season.
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