By To the Pax Christi International Community
We are all shaken by the haunting images and news reports we receive daily. Just when it seems it could not get any worse – it does! What are we to do to stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in the Holy Land? How can we possibly make a difference? These questions plague us.
While none of us have the power to change policy or stop the carnage, we do have the power to tell our political leaders what we demand… an immediate bi-lateral ceasefire, the release of all the hostages and those held in Israeli detention, the full restoration of UNRWA funding and an end to unrestricted arms transfers to Israel.
We can – we must – ensure that the on-going plight of Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem remain part of the story. It is all one… a systematic effort to erase half of the population from the Holy Land by any means necessary.
Embracing in full measure the teachings of Jesus to stand with the oppressed and marginalised while loving our enemies, our resolute demands must always be based in nonviolence.
The world is indeed watching and there is not a minute to waste.
Our call must be loud, and our actions must be visible.
Nothing is too small or trivial to do.
It is our collective and persistent effort that can bring about the just peace which is so desperately needed.
Help spread the message for Peace: Share the PCI’s open letter and urge faith leaders to advocate for nonviolence in the Holy Land! Download the letter in English, Spanish, or French.
- Call and/or write to your elected leaders EVERY day. They hold the power to change policy – you, the voters, have the power to change their minds. Feel free to use the latest PCI’s Statement here.
- Share this letter urging EU officials and decision makers to align with the ICJ ruling and stop the Genocide in Gaza.
- Download the New Holy Week with Gaza Devotional Study from Sabeel
- Demand that your religious leaders use their unique influence in calling for justice and peace.
- Invite your faith community to pray the Stations/Way of the Cross juxtaposing the pain and suffering of Jesus with that of the people of Gaza.
- Consider how your church can share an iftar meal with your Muslim neighbors during Ramadan.
- Coordinate a special Good Friday vigil/walk/Silent Circle.
- Suggest the inclusion of a Prayer of the Faithful that speaks to Gaza specifically: https://www.cbcew.org.uk/prayer-resources/
- There is an annual Good Friday collection for the Holy Land – make sure your congregation participates.
- Fast one hour/day every week – either as an individual or as part of a group.
- Lift the voices of Palestinians – Let the world know them and their stories. Organise a movie screening or create a book group. Invite a speaker to give a talk.
- Join one of the many pilgrimages, walks, and rallies taking place near you. Invite others to accompany you.
- Let people know of your participation in advocacy through social media. Do not hide under the proverbial “bushel”.
- Deliver the Veterans for Peace letter to the US Embassy in your country
- Sign and Share petitions calling for a ceasefire, restoring funding to UNRWA, stop the transfer of unrestricted arms to Israel.
- Consider advancing a Ceasefire Resolution in your town or city.
- Place a Ceasefire sign on your lawn or window.
- Involve children in an event that lifts a message of peace and hope: Find inspiration in our Advent Cards.
- Begin planning events that commemorate the killing of journalist Shireen Abu Aklar (11 May) and the Nakba (15 May).