[The Rev. Dr. Jane Fisler Hoffman is Interim Conference Minister of the United Church of Christ's Southern California Nevada Conference.  She participated in the Child Sponsorship trip to Israel/Palestine in September, 2009.  The following are her reflections on that trip, posted on Jane's blog, "Quick News from Jane."]

Dear Friends,

You know that 'writer's block' is seldom a problem for me and my 'quick news' articles aren't always 'quick'! But for some reason, I have indeed been troubled by 'writer's block' in preparing something for you about the experience of my September 2009 trip with the UCC-DOC to Palestine-Israel. But my best effort is finally completed and online, titled "Weeping and Hoping in the Holy Land" in our Connecting Voices online magazine. I hope you will take the time to read it and read it all—not for me but for our sisters and brothers in this troubled region. As always, I look forward to hearing from you if you have responses.

Blessings and thank you,

Jane

(Click here to read "Weeping and Hoping In The Holy Land.")