Global Ministries

Recent violence between Gaza and Israel is a tragic indicator of the need for a just and lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis.  Sadly, however, U.S. policy is working against such an outcome.

In a November 14 ecumenical statement, 16 U.S. Christian leaders outline developments in U.S. policy toward Israel/Palestine since the beginning of the Trump Administration, noting their negative impact on Palestinians and the prospects for peace for Israel and Palestine. The statement was sent to all members of Congress and to the Trump administration.

Global Ministries and UCC and Disciples leaders were co-signatories in an ecumenical statement sent today to all members of Congress and the Senate, as well as to the White House.  The statement focuses on the shifts in US policy and approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.  The full statement is published here, in its entirety.

An Israel undercover commando unit killed a Hamas leader and six others inside Gaza near Khan Younis. Israel launched air attacks to provide cover for the retreat of the commandos. An Israeli officer was killed and one wounded. The Israeli incursion and air attacks drew rocket fire from the Hamas-controlled enclave threatening an escalation of violence in the region.

O Lord, our Shepherd and our Rock, we pray to you at this time of violence in and around Gaza. Please strengthen those in Gaza who are committed to nonviolence and deliverance for all those who continue to suffer. Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer.

Bipartisan Group Of Congressmen Slam Israel Over Bill To Seize Church Land
The Jerusalem Post

“A bipartisan group of US lawmakers... has sent a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo protesting Israel’s advancement of the so-called "properties bill," which aims to nationalize properties used for housing that were owned by the church and sold to private entrepreneurs.” The lawmakers wrote that they were concerned that the “bill threatens the sustainability of the historic Christian presence in Jerusalem.”

The ‘Great March of Return’ continued into its 32nd week. Palestinian factions agreed to ensure protests remained peaceful, after reaching agreement in talks brokered by Egypt. This decision followed Israel’s expansion of the permitted fishing zone off the Gaza coast and agreement to transfer funds from Qatar for Hamas salaries.

Lord, we pray for the peace talks led by Egypt and the UN, that there may be a cessation of the suffering in Gaza. Lord, in your mercy...

Christmas Message from Bethlehem 2018
by H.B. Patriarch Michel Sabbah
Latin Patriarch Emeritus of Jerusalem

The angel said to the shepherds: “I bring you good tidings that will spread great joy to all people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:11)

The following statement was issued on Nov. 1 by the leadership of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, The Episcopal Church, and the US Conference of Catholic Bishops.  You can use this action alert to ask for a restoration of funding for these critical institutions.

The Administration Must Stand Up for the Christian Community in Jerusalem and the Holy Land

In February, the Israeli Knesset first considered legislation that would allow for state expropriation of Church lands. After intense outcry, including the closure of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in protest, and a letter from eighteen U.S. religious leaders,  Prime Minister Netanyahu announced a hold on the legislation and appointed Minister Tzachi Hanegbi to work with all parties, including Church leaders to work toward a solution. After a meeting with Minister Hanegbi in mid-September, Church leaders in Jerusalem were stunned to see the legislation once again under consideration in the Knesset. While Prime Minister Netanyahu delayed the planned vote, it will once again be placed in the Legislative Committee of the Knesset on Sunday, November 4. The legislation remains a significant threat to the Status Quo and the sustainability of the Christian community in the Holy Land.

The Coptic Orthodox Bishops of North America issued the following statement on Oct. 24 regarding the attack on Al Sultan Monastery of the Coptic Orthodox Church at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem.  You can read more about this incident here.

We, the Coptic Orthodox Bishops of North America, strongly denounce the abhorrent treatment of monks and deacons serving in the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem under the auspices of His Eminence Metropolitan Antonius of Jerusalem and the unlawful arrest of one of the monks, as they exercised their right for peaceful protest against the illegal seize of the Sultan Monastery in Jerusalem.

The “Great March of Return” passed its 31st Friday amid increasing violence from the Israeli forces and militants amongst the legitimate protestors. More than 230 people were injured, and five killed including 19-year-old Nassar Abu Tim.

Lord of the suffering, we pray for a commitment to human rights by all sides and the protection of all lives. We pray for effective international intervention to ensure justice. We pray for humanitarian aid and rebuilding where destruction has occurred. We pray for peace and for justice in our homes and on our city streets. Wrap all and each of these your people in your love. Let them hear: “Come to me you who suffer and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer.