We are all reeling from the horrific cycle of violence spiraling wildly out of control in Israel and in Gaza and now in the whole of the occupied Palestinian territories. The loss of life, and civilians caught in the midst, both in Israel and Palestine, is beyond devastating; it is senseless, insane, and criminal. And yet it is continuing, getting worse each day, as violence predictably, inexorably, begets yet greater violence. 

Our own government has taken sides, declaring its ironclad allegiance to Israel and sending yet more military weapons and support. And the mainstream media in this country is also, for the most part, siding with Israel, providing little to no context, rendering invisible or ignoring Israel’s 75 years of systemic violence. As Nicholas Kristof wrote in an Oct. 12^th NYT op-ed, "If your moral compass is attuned to the suffering of only one side, your compass is broken, and so is your humanity.”

The situation is volatile; it’s hard to stay current. Even as I write, the ‘fog of war’ is thickening, the violence is escalating in unthinkable and heart sickening ways. Israel has just told 1.1 million Palestinians, trapped in the world's largest open-air prison, to leave northern Gaza. This is ethnic cleansing unfolding in real time and in public view.

In an effort to provide our readers with ready access to statements from the UCC in conjunction with other Christian groups, from mission partners like Kairos Palestine, and also alternative news commentary, UCC PIN offers this compilation of articles. Of special note, to support those of you preaching this Sunday and struggling with what to say, please read John Thomas’ reflections “What Shall We Say.”

In this week’s online Sabeel worship (with close to 500 participating virtually), Sabeel’s founder, the Rev. Naim Ateek asserted, “We will continue to stand for wisdom, justice, and truth. We will continue to believe in nonviolence. . . . pray and work, work and pray . . for light over darkness, truth over falsehood, love over hatred and violence.” 

In such a time as this, may we stay deeply rooted in the nonviolent love of Jesus, as we pray and work, work and pray for justice and authentic peace that respects and protects the dignity and sacredness of all God’s beloved. 

In the words of Rose Marie Berger, from Sojourners: may this be our prayer too:

God of Justice,

give strength to those whose long work for a just peace

might seem fruitless now. Strengthen their resolve.

Do not let them feel alone. Show us how to support their work

and bolster their courage. Guide religious leaders to model

unity and reconciliation across lines of division.

Guide political leaders to listen with their hearts as they seek peace and pursue it.

Help all people choose the rigorous path of just peace and disavow violence.

See the full text of Rose Marie Berger's prayer here