‘The Cross and the Olive Tree: Cultivating Palestinian Theology Amid Gaza,’ edited by the Palestinian theologians (and brothers) John and Samuel Munayer, can teach us much about a faith-based, justice response to the situation in the Middle East today.
Israel Palestine
Pope Leo writes to Gaza priest after strike kills 5, including Christian mother, daughter: ‘How long, Lord?’
“Ever since hearing the painful news about Maysa and Mary, I’ve been praying for them, their families, and everyone in Gaza. ‘How long, Lord?’” Pope Leo wrote, echoing a lament from Psalm 13.
Jerusalem court acquits a man indicted in nun attack, orders psychiatric care
The violent assault in April on a nun walking in her habit in Jerusalem’s Old City sent shock waves across Israel and its many Christian communities.
West Bank’s last Christian village threatened by extremist Israeli settler attacks
“The situation is getting worse by the day. It is dangerous and unsafe. You are worried about your life and about the lives of your children,” Victor Barakat, a dual U.S.-Palestinian citizen, said.
Pope Leo calls for end to West Bank violence, pursuit of two-state solution
The pope’s appeal came amid reports of violent attacks by Israeli settlers, including in Taybeh, one of the last remaining Christian villages in the West Bank.
For Christians in Gaza, World Cup final offers brief respite from horrors of war
On the eve of the final match, Argentine Father Gabriel Romanelli, pastor of Holy Family Parish in Gaza City, shared a video with parishioners and children hyping them up for the long-awaited conclusion to the World Cup.
Pope Leo issues plea for Gaza assistance
“I would like to renew my appeal to all authorities to assist the people of Gaza. To help them now to begin to rebuild because the people are truly still suffering.”
Christians rally to support aid for Palestinians, end arm sales to Israel
“Instead of funding war, our faith calls us to feed the hungry, defend the oppressed, and work for just peace.”
Suspect arrested for assault against French nun in Jerusalem
“The Israel Police treats any attack on members of the clergy and religious communities with the utmost seriousness and applies a policy of zero tolerance to all acts of violence,” a statement from Israeli police read.
Lebanese Christians rejoice over new Christ statue brought by Italian soldiers after IDF desecration
Lebanese Christians in Debel are celebrating the gift of a new statue of Jesus on the cross after a recent act of desecration by two Israeli soldiers drew global outrage.
