- Why is the Israeli-Palestinian conflict important?
For generations, Palestinian Christians, Muslims, and Israeli Jews have suffered the fear and pain of ongoing warfare and insecurity.
Palestinian Christians and Muslims have suffered the loss of their land and dignity, disruption of their livelihood, and lack of human rights. This land is sacred to three monotheistic religions, whose adherents have the right to safe and unfettered access. On the positive side, this common cause offers opportunities for interfaith collaboration. In terms of global politics, what happens in the Holy Land can either help resolve conflict in the Middle East or expand it into even more deadly conflicts.
- Why is the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) involved?
The profound injustice and suffering in the Holy Land compel us as people of faith to act for peace with justice. ELCA members in particular are called to respond because of the ELCA's longstanding connections with sisters and brothers in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL). The ELCA and the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) have contributed to humanitarian projects that provide health and education for both Christian and Muslim Palestinians through support for such institutions as Augusta Victoria Hospital, the International Center of Bethlehem, and the schools of the ELCJHL.
- What changes are Lutherans and the ELCA advocating?
First, ELCA members are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the history of the Middle East and current issues, to be advocates for responsible political action, and to listen to the voices of Palestinians and Israelis through visits to the region in coordination with local partners. Second, the ELCA has called on both parties in the conflict to adhere to international law and human rights conventions, including the protection and preservation of internationally recognized human rights. Third, the ELCA has advocated that the use of U.S. tax dollars for foreign assistance must be related to the willingness of nations in the Middle East to negotiate with one another in good faith.
- What is the ELCA's position on peace in the Middle East?
The ELCA has called for vigorous U.S. leadership in support of the Road Map for Peace, including support for an end to terrorist attacks and all other forms of violent conflict, as well as for a viable, contiguous, independent Palestinian state and a secure Israel. The ELCA has urged U.S. leaders to seek an immediate ceasefire and stronger U.S. diplomatic pressure on all groups that wish to destabilize the region or otherwise promote violence. Other steps which have been named include: (1) facilitating the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Palestinian areas; (2) bringing about an end to the occupation; (3) establishing an international presence in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza; (4) advocating for an end to the separation barrier’s construction on Palestinian land and, ultimately, for a shared Jerusalem; and (5) supporting diplomacy that leads to recognition for the state of Israel and normalized relations with its Arab neighbors.
A number of these calls for action were endorsed by Churchwide Assemblies and resolutions adopted by the Church Council and are included in the Churchwide Strategy for Engagement in Israel and Palestine adopted by the Church Council in April 2005.
- What does the ELCA say about violence and terrorism?
The ELCA has two social policy documents that discuss these issues. The social statement, “For Peace in God's World,” discusses this topic, calling us to be part of the church’s community of peace. While we “recognize sin’s persistent, pervasive, and subtle power,” we affirm that “God continues to work through people, their communities and structures, to make earthly peace possible.” In 2004, the Church Council adopted a Message on Terrorism that describes terrorism as political violence and calls on governments to respond effectively and fairly. Christians are furthermore challenged to live beyond fear in the truth of God’s love in Christ Jesus, which frees us and calls us forth into the world.
- Can we make a difference? Of course we can. Here are some examples:
(a) as a church body
As a church body, the ELCA has connections with companions in the Lutheran World Federation and with Jewish, Muslim, and Christian colleagues in the United States who are committed to a just and peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Working together worldwide, we can make a difference to help bring an end to occupation and violence. ELCA members in congregations, colleges, seminaries, and social service organizations can use their power to express their commitment to build an enduring peace for all in the region.
(b) as congregations
As congregations, we can organize educational series for adults and youth as well as church-to-church exchanges with Palestinian Christians in the Holy Land and here in the United States, and with Muslim and Jewish groups seeking Middle East peace. We can sponsor trips to the region to build awareness and engage members in dialogue with Israeli Jews and Palestinian Christians and Muslims. We can encourage generous donations to the schools and ministries of Lutherans in the Holy Land. We can train members to advocate for peace, and we can establish monthly observance of the national ecumenical prayer vigil.
(c) as individuals
As individual Christians called to responsible citizenship, we can educate ourselves about the historical background and current issues in this long-term conflict. We can take our concerns to our local communities, congregations, and elected officials. We can pray for wisdom and magnanimity among the political and religious leaders charged with negotiating a just end to the conflict and with establishing a viable Palestinian state as a neighbor to a secure Israel.