Posts tagged Israel and Palestine
Lutheran Disaster Response: Bringing Hope Amid War in the Holy Land and Ukraine
Lutheran Disaster Response: Bringing Hope Amid War in the Holy Land and Ukraine

As wars in the Holy Land and Ukraine continue, Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) is providing vital aid to refugees and vulnerable communities through partnerships with local and global organizations. From creating safe spaces for people with intellectual disabilities in the West Bank to converting bomb shelters into schools in Ukraine, LDR is bringing hope and healing in the midst of conflict. Read more in Living Lutheran and learn how your support can make a difference at elca.org/ldr.

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ELCA, News, Global ChurchBrian FlatgardRussia and Ukraine War, Israel and Palestine, Lutheran World Federation, Lutheran Disaster Response, Living LutheranComment
Journey Through Advent: Exploring Justice and the Holy Land
Journey Through Advent: Exploring Justice and the Holy Land

This Advent, explore justice and inclusion through the fourth annual Advent Pilgrimage in Palestine, hosted by ELCA Sumud and ELCA Young Adults. Resources drop November 22, leading into weekly reflections in December that connect the story of Christ’s birth with themes of empire and justice.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, ELCA Young Adults, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, 2024 Advent and ChristmasComment
Human Rights in the Holy Land: Palestinian Christian Leader Jonathan Kuttab Speaks in Phoenix
Human Rights in the Holy Land: Palestinian Christian Leader Jonathan Kuttab Speaks in Phoenix

Attend one of a special series of talks from Palestinian Christian human rights lawyer Jonathan Kuttab in Phoenix, Nov. 7-9. Kuttab, co-founder of Al Haq and Executive Director of FOSNA, will discuss “The U.S., Palestine, Israel, and Human Rights.” Each day will feature a different location with presentations centered on peace and justice in the Holy Land. Don’t miss this chance to engage with Kuttab’s faith-rooted perspective on nonviolent advocacy and human rights in a region critical to our faith and world.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment
Lifeline of Care: $20M from USAID to Support Augusta Victoria Hospital’s Cancer and Kidney Services
Lifeline of Care: $20M from USAID to Support Augusta Victoria Hospital’s Cancer and Kidney Services

Augusta Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem has received $20 million from USAID, enabling it to sustain vital cancer and kidney care for Palestinians. As the sole specialized healthcare provider in the region, AVH faces financial challenges but continues serving over 5 million people with international support. In light of recent escalations, AVH seeks additional donations to help accommodate patients and staff from Gaza and the West Bank and to secure medical supplies for those impacted by ongoing conflicts. This collaboration exemplifies the power of partnership in sustaining life-saving care. Read the full article at Lutheran World Federation.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, August Victoria Hospital, Lutheran World FederationComment
Southeastern Iowa Synod Service of Lamentation and Remembrance: praying for Peace in the Holy Land
Southeastern Iowa Synod Service of Lamentation and Remembrance: praying for Peace in the Holy Land

The Southeastern Iowa Synod Sumud working group and Pastor Peter Petit have developed a liturgy for congregations to use for a service of lamentation and remembrance to be used on or near Sunday, October 6, 2024. Bishop Current has provided a pre-recorded sermon to use as part of this service.

Additionally, the pre-recorded PowerPoint introduction to the Israel-Hamas war, including history of the area, the current conflict, and some ministry perspectives. These are great to use as an accompanying adult forum or study in your congregation. Download all the resources using links in our post.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, Southeastern Iowa SynodComment
Worship Resources: Anniversary of the Ongoing War in the Middle East
Worship Resources: Anniversary of the Ongoing War in the Middle East

As we approach the anniversary of Oct. 7, 2023, we remember a day of heartbreaking grief for the people of Israel and Palestine, devastated by Hamas attacks on civilians and by the bombardment of Gaza. Mindful that the people of the Holy Land are still living in anguish and in war one year later, congregations may consider incorporating prayers and laments in worship on Sunday, October 6 or at other times near the anniversary, in public worship or for devotional use at home or in other settings.

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ELCA, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and PalestineComment
Bishop Eaton: Praying for Peace Amid Ongoing War in the Middle East
Bishop Eaton: Praying for Peace Amid Ongoing War in the Middle East

In observance of the one-year anniversary of the start of the current conflict in the Holy Land, Bishop Eaton offers prayers for peace, healing and justice for all people in Israel and Palestine, and the regions where the war has escalated. “We grieve this violence and loss of life with all people of the Holy Land — and with the Palestinian community of the ELCA, our Jewish and Muslim neighbors, and all who live in fear, pain and anguish. We believe the presence and love of God in Jesus Christ can always be found in the places of the cross. Wherever violence, injustice and death seem to have the last word, God is there and has not abandoned the people.”

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Eaton Letters, Israel and Palestine, Church and SocietyComment
Supporting Peace and Justice: Updates from the Ground in Palestine and Israel
Supporting Peace and Justice: Updates from the Ground in Palestine and Israel

The September Sumud Newsletter calls Lutherans to speak up for peace and justice in Palestine and Israel. Updates include a $250,000 donation from Lutheran Disaster Response to support children’s education in the Holy Land, reflections on the ongoing violence, and Bishop Meghan Aelabouni’s new role in the Rocky Mountain Synod. Join us for the Global Sunday of Mutual Flourishing on October 6th by accessing worship resources at mutualflourishing.com. Read the full newsletter here.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and PalestineComment
Sumud and Solidarity: ELCA Discusses New Approaches to Peace in the Middle East
Sumud and Solidarity: ELCA Discusses New Approaches to Peace in the Middle East

In the ELCA webinar "Go and Tell," held on April 13, 2024, Rev. Rodny Said provided a poignant update from Ramallah, highlighting the current situation in the West Bank. Rev. Dr. Meghan Aelabouni took center stage to discuss effective methods of advocating for justice in Palestine and Israel, addressing frequently asked questions and explaining the concept of Sumud—the ELCA's commitment to partnership, awareness, and advocacy in the region.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and PalestineComment
Week 6: Journey to the Cross, with Rev. Rodny Said
Week 6: Journey to the Cross, with Rev. Rodny Said

Week 6 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is Journey to the Cross, with Rev. Rodny Said.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at ELCA.org/sumud.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
Week 5: Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar
Week 5: Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar

Week 5 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at ELCA.org/sumud.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
Week 4: A Counter Cultural Message with Rev. Ashraf Tannous
Week 4: A Counter Cultural Message with Rev. Ashraf Tannous

Week 4 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is: A Counter Cultural Message with Rev. Ashraf Tannous.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at ELCA.org/sumud.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
ELCA Bishops Unite for Peace and Migrant Solidarity in Latest Conference
ELCA Bishops Unite for Peace and Migrant Solidarity in Latest Conference

During their recent meeting, the ELCA Conference of Bishops addressed critical international and domestic issues, showing support for a cease-fire in Gaza and solidarity with migrants in Texas. They discussed the role of faith in advocacy, updates on Holy Communion practices, and progress from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church. Other topics included synod diversity goals, tackling white supremacy and patriarchy, AMMPARO's expansion, and roster committee recommendations. Read more at ELCA.org.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, Conference of BishopsComment
Week 3: Belovedness in the Wilderness with Rev. Fursan Zu'mot
Week 3: Belovedness in the Wilderness with Rev. Fursan Zu'mot

Week 3 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is: Week 3: Belovedness in the Wilderness with Rev. Fursan Zu'mot.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: https://www.bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at https://www.ELCA.org/sumud.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
ELCA Conference of Bishops calls for permanent bilateral cease-fire in Gaza
ELCA Conference of Bishops calls for permanent bilateral cease-fire in Gaza

The Conference of Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is adding its voice to the growing group of faith leaders urgently calling for a permanent bilateral cease-fire in Gaza. We urge President Joe Biden, our legislators, and all who lead and make decisions on behalf of the United States to do everything in their power to bring an end to the current suffering and lay the foundation for lasting peace with justice. 

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ELCA, News, LettersBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, Conference of BishopsComment
Week 2: Good News of Great Joy For All People with Rev. Imad Haddad
Week 2: Good News of Great Joy For All People with Rev. Imad Haddad

Week 2 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is: Good News of Great Joy For All People with Rev. Imad Haddad by the Shepherd's Field.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: https://www.bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at https://www.ELCA.org/sumud.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
Sumud: the Way of Jesus with Ranan Issa Abu Shanab
Sumud: the Way of Jesus with Ranan Issa Abu Shanab

Week 1 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is: Sumud the Way of Jesus with Ranan Issa Abu Shanab at the Church of Annunciation.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: https://www.bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at https://www.ELCA.org/sumud.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
What is Sumud? | Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey
What is Sumud? | Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey

“Following the Way of Jesus: a Lenten Holy Land Journey” begins on the Sea of Galilee. The introduction week will invite you into this 6-week series. Through this journey you will explore the Holy Land, the theology of Sumud and what it means for Palestinian Christians today.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
Following the way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land journey
Following the way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land journey

The ELCA's new initiative, Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel, presents “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey.” This Lenten video series for individuals and congregations consists of six short videos that introduce people to the land, the theology of sumud and its significance through Scripture as the “way of Jesus.” Each video will be available in both English and Arabic.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud here.

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Lent, Sumud, Israel and PalestineComment