Special Communications
Stay informed about news from Bishop Megan, the Office of the Bishop, churches, and individuals throughout the diocese.
August 1, 2025
Dear Friends,
The news coming out of Gaza about widespread starvation (including babies and children) is devastating. Earlier this month, the Archbishop of the Diocese of Jerusalem, the Most Rev. Hosam Naoum, gave this address to the Church of England’s annual Synod. Our Presiding Bishop, the Most Rev. Sean Rowe, implored Episcopalians to act and pray. This week, concerns continue being raised by groups around the world about this dire situation, including this statement from the Archbishop of York (England), the Most Rev. Stephen Cottrell.
I was asked recently how we can help. In addition to our prayers, here are some practical resources, all connected to our Episcopal Tradition.
- The offerings many churches take on Good Friday go to support the courageous and important work of the Diocese of Jerusalem, which covers both the Holy Land and surrounding areas. We most often work through the American Friends of the Diocese of Jerusalem, and encourage others who wish to provide financial support to give through them.
- The Episcopal Church has an Office of Governmental Relations that has a section devoted to conflict in the Holy Land. You can find all kinds of resources there, including work done at General Convention, and resources for communicating with your legislators.
- Friends of Sabeel North America is a nonprofit Christian ecumenical organization seeking justice and peace in the Holy Land through education, advocacy, and nonviolent action. They are part of an international network supporting the work of the original Sabeel organization, founded by Palestinian Anglican priest the Rev. Naim Ateek.
- Finally, I the Episcopal Peace Fellowship is a national organization founded in the 1940s to address issues of peace and justice. They have a focused group doing work on this issue, the Palestine Justice Network.
My siblings in Christ, this is not a political issue – this is literally a matter of life and death for fellow human beings. I encourage you to do what you can (pray, write, give, advocate). It is hard news to hear, but I implore you not to turn away.
You may wish to use this prayer in your church, (adapted from the Episcopal Public Policy Network):
God of mercy and justice, look with sorrow upon those suffering in Gaza who are displaced from their homes, facing mass starvation, enduring a collapsed healthcare system, and grieving the loss of countless loved ones.
In this time of devastation and despair, let us not be silent. Hear our grief, sorrow, and outrage. May their endurance, courage, and hope stand strong where the buildings, water systems, crops, and olive groves could not. Let the cries of the innocent be heard, and guide all nations to act with conscience, seeking a just peace rooted in truth, dignity, and the shared humanity of your children. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, the Prince of Peace. Amen.
Our God is faithful. May we use our faith and courage to speak for those who cannot.
In Christ,
Canon Julie
