Dialogue with the Presbyterian Church USA
Pirkei Avot 1:11
The Presbyterian Church (USA) 216th General Assembly voted July 2, 2004 on numerous resolutions regarding the Jewish People and the conflict in the Middle East, including starting a process of a phased and selective divestment of its nearly $8 billion portfolio from select Israel-related firms. Rabbis for Human Rights initiated a dialogue with the Presbyterian Church stemming from our grave concerns about the divestment resolution.
press releases, resolutions, recomendations, backgrounders, reports and reactions dealing with the Presbyterian Church (USA) position towards Israel and the Jewish People.
Exchange of Correspondance between The Presbyterian Church (USA) and Rabbis for Human Rights
“…We genuinely seek peace with justice for both Israelis and Palestinians and are grateful for your invitation to be in dialogue together about how we might achieve those important goals….”
We remain concerned that your resolution may send you down a slippery slope into collective punishment that will harm innocent Israelis without truly affecting the policies we jointly abhor.
“…People of faith and honor may disagree in perspective, and even in discerning what is needed for peace to be achieved…”
Bad Waters: An Open Letter to the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Getting beyond name-calling: Jewish liberals and liberal Protestants
The Presbyterian Church (USA), Israel and Jewish Relations
History of the Presbyterian Church (USA)’s steps toward peace in Israel and Palestine
Presbyterian Church (USA) General Assemblies have addressed issues of relevance to the Middle East, specifically Israel and Palestine, for more than half a century
History of the Presbyterian Church (USA)’s steps toward peace in Israel and Palestine
Steps Toward Peace in Israel and Palestine
One action that the PC(USA) has initiated in an effort to seek peace is a phased, selective process of divestment with corporations whose practices support the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, assist the construction of the Separation Barrier, or facilitate Israelis or Palestinians with violent acts against innocent civilians.
We Page on ways the The Presbyterian Church (USA) is working for a peace in Israel and Palestine.
The Israel/Palestine Mission Network
The Israel/Palestine Mission Network seeks to engage, consolidate, nourish and channel the energy in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) toward the goal of a just peace in Israel and Palestine by facilitating education, promoting partnership, and coordinating advocacy.
The Israel/Palestine Mission Network
Israel and Jewish Relations
Two issues in particular have caused the most discussion: a decision to “initiate a process of phased, selective divestment in multinational corporation operating in Israel,” and the rejection of a proposal to suspend national-level funding for any further “messianic” new church developments until this form of evangelization can be evaluated in light of our understanding of Christian-Jewish relations.
»» Official Web site of the Presbyterian Church (USA) that explains their perspective on the actions that were taken, provide links to further information, and offer suggestions for Presbyterians who are discussing and preaching about these issues.
The Committee on Mission Responsibility Through Investment (MRTI)
“..The phased selective divestment process includes a full range of efforts including education, interpretation and public witness, as a way both to create a better informed constituency regarding the nature of Christian witness through the use of financial resources and to engage actively Presbyterians in advocacy around the issues that promoted the divestment process..”
»» Official Web site of The Committee on Mission Responsibility Through Investment (MRTI) of Presbyterian Church (USA)
On August 5, 2005, the Mission Responsibility Through Investment Committee (MRTI) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) announced that it will begin its process of “progressive engagement” with five companies whose practices contribute to the ongoing violence that plagues Israel and Palestine.
Mission Responsibility Through Investment Committee: August 2005
General Assembly Divestment List
The Committee on Mission Responsibility Through Investment of the The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) urges divestment and/or proscription of some corporations due to their involvement in military-related production, tobacco or human rights violations.
»» Comprehensive list of corporations or securities affected by the policies of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (November 25, 2004)
Guidelines for the Implementation of Divestment related to Israel and Palestine
Summary of Highlights from the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy Middle East Trip
“..In every country we visited we heard deep appreciation.. and.praise for the planned, selective, phased economic divestment action..”
Summary of The Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy’s of the Presbyterian Church (USA) Middle East trip, and their meetings with a wide variety of religious and political leaders. [PDF 186 KB]( October, 2004)
Taking stock of taking stock: Church researching ‘selective’ divestment in Israel-related firms.
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA) News Release No. 04341 (August 2, 2004)
Jewish peace group challenges Caterpillar’s Israel business
PC(USA) backs shareholders’ resolution seeking stop to demolitions.
»» The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) committed itself to supporting the resolution. (October 11, 2004)
Statement from the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
Concerning actions of the 216th General Assembly (2004) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) regarding Israel and Palestine and outreach to Jewish people.
»» Statement by Clifton Kirkpatrick Stated Clerk of the General Assembly Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)(July 20, 2004)
A clarification regarding the particular concern regarding the PC(USA) decision to begin a careful process of selective divestment
Selling shares of stock owned by the companies whose actions support the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
»» Rick Ufford-Chase Moderator of the 216th General Assembly (2004)Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (July 20, 2004)
Resolution on Violence, Religion, and Terrorism
This resolution addressed the the case of the Palestinian people in regards to the overwhelming threat to life and livelihood represented by the Israeli Defense Forces and Israel’s fear of their neighbors becoming the occasion for justifying their campaigns of terror against the Palestinian population, obliterating villages and assassinating Palestinian leaders, in spite of the normative teachings of their faith that condemn such violence
216th General Assembly (2004) Richmond, Virginia [PDF 530 KB](July 3, 2004)
Assembly endorses Israel divestment: Palestinian says merely issuing another statement is not enough
“..a call for the corporate witness office of the Presbyterian Church (USA) to begin gathering data to support a selective divestment of holdings in multinational corporations doing business in Israel/Palestine..”
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA) 216th General Assembly (2004) - Report GA04121 (July 2, 2004)
Christian-Jewish relations to be studied: Assembly declines to suspend funding of new ‘Messianic’ churches.
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA) 216th General Assembly Report GA040801 (June 30, 2004)
Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations
The Committee on Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations approved part of an overture calling on the Presbyterian Church (USA) to study the relationship between Christians and Jews, but turned down another part that asked for a suspension of General Assembly funding for future “Messianic congregations” until the study is completed.
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA) 216th General Assembly (2004) - Report GA04053 (June 29, 2004)
On the Relationship Between Christians and Jews and PCUSA Evangelism
Interfaith relations
How Presbyterians should relate to people of other faiths — Jews in particular: Should the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) engage in dialogue with people of other faiths — or evangelize them?
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA) 216th General Assembly (2004) - backgrounder: Interfaith relations (June 26, 2004)
On Confronting Christian Zionism
“.. to actively oppose Christian Zionism and to develop a plan to communicate the theological and political ramifications it engenders…”
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA), Actions for the 216th General Assembly (2004): Item 12-03 — Overture 04-34
Abington Township, et al. v. Congregation Kol Ami, et al.; U.S. Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit
On May 1, 2002, the Stated Clerk of The Presbyterian Church (USA), Clifton Kirkpatrick, joined an amicus curiae brief. Kol Ami, a Jewish congregation, purchased the land formerly used by a Catholic monastery as a place of worship and is awaiting a decision in litigation to allow it to use the property as a Jewish congregational place of worship. The brief challenges the township zoning ordinance that would prohibit this transfer and use of property.
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA), Actions for the 216th General Assembly (2004): Item 03-Info D Advisory Committee on Litigation
Jewishiasation: Obstacles to the implementation of human rights in the Arab region
“.. pray for all victims of human rights abuse and for those who persecute them, also seeking ways to act on behalf of these victims..”
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA), Actions for the 216th General Assembly (2004): Item 13-05 — Human Rights Update
Tear down this wall: Palestinians urge U.S. Christians to do more than just talk
“..concrete strategies that have a real impact on Palestinian life — such as helping émigrés return home and boycotting U.S. companies that invest in Israel’s illegal settlements..”.
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA), Actions for the 216th General Assembly (2004): Report GA04008 (July 3, 2004)
On Calling for an End to the Construction of a Wall by the State of Israel
This recommendation opposes the construction of a wall and other barriers by the State of Israel and make knowns the desire of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) that the United States of America make no monetary contribution to the 1.3 billion dollar cost of the construction of this wall.
»» »»The Presbyterian Church (USA), Actions for the 216th General Assembly (2004): Item 12-02 — Overture 04-33
On Supporting the Geneva Accord, Urging Israel and Palestine to Implement the Accord
” …The occupation.. has proven to be at the root of evil acts committed against innocent people…The security of Israel.. is inexorably dependent on.. reaching a just and equitable solution to the conflict that respects..the rights of refugees to return to their homeland… Horrific acts of violence and deadly attacks on innocent people, whether carried out by Palestinian “suicide bombers” or by the Israeli military, are abhorrent and inexcusable by all measures, and are a dead-end alternative to a negotiated settlement of the conflict..”
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA), Actions for the 216th General Assembly (2004): Item 12-01 — Overture 04-32
Recommendation to Approve the Plenary Consent Agenda. Congregational Ministries Division Final Responses to Referrals regarding Israel.
“.. Presbyterians need to continue their efforts to advocate (the)-affirmed right of return, and to urge that it be resolved justly as well as realistically in order to reach a mutual acceptance by Israelis and Palestinians..”
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA), Actions for the 216th General Assembly (2004): Item 01-02
Iraq: Our Responsibility and the Future
The Presbyterian Church (USA) Assembly voted to adopt this item which states that Iraq was not the only nation that could be suspected of supporting terrorists, was not the only nation that posed problems for world order, is not the only nation that has refused to conform to the mandates of the United Nations…Israel, which the United States supports, .. on occasion defied such mandates. The reason for singling out Iraq for aggressive intervention while not attacking other nations whose role in supporting terrorists was similarly if not, indeed, even more probable was never given definitive clarity.
The Presbyterian Church (USA), Actions for the 216th General Assembly (2004): Item 12-05 [PDF 376 KB]
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel
Statements of the General Assembly of The Presbyterian Church (USA) regarding Israel
Statements and Commentaries by the Committee on Social Witness Policy
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA), (1948-2003)
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 2003
On Sending a Delegation to the Middle East; Resolution on Israel and Palestine: End the Occupation Now; On Creating a Study Guide on the History and Evolving Present Day Situation of the Middle East
[PDF 24 KB]
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 2002
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 2001
2001 Statement regarding Israel.
»» The Presbyterian Church (USA), The 213th General Assembly (2001)
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 2000
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 1998
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 1995-1997
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 1992
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 1990
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 1988
Presbyterian Church (USA) Statements and Resolutions regarding Israel 1974-1987
What is “phased, selective divestment”?
The particular process for addressing divestment issues.
»» Adopted by the 197th General Assembly (1985) of The Presbyterian Church (USA)
The Presbyterian Church (USA), Israel and Palestine Resource Sheets
Historical Background
Christian Presence in Israel and Palestine
United Nations, Israel and Palestine
Current Realities
The Separation Barrier - The Security Barrier - The Wall
Al-Aqsa Intifada - 2000 Intifada
Peace Groups in Israel and Palestine
Human Rights Update (August 2005)
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Efforts
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Involvement in Israel and Palestine
A Brief Summary of General Assembly Statements
216th General Assembly (2004) Statements Relating to Israel and Palestine
Socially Responsible Investing: Mission Responsibility Through Investment (MRTI)
Guidelines for the Implementation of Phased, Selective Divestment Related to Israel and Palestine
Mission Responsibility Through Investment Committee: August 2005 Update-
Christian Zionism
Interfaith Dialogue
Productive Dialogue with our Jewish and Muslim Neighbors
Ideas for Engagement
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Resources
Interfaith Dialogue
Productive Dialogue with our Jewish and Muslim Neighbors
Ideas for Engagement
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Resources
Presbyterian Church (USA): Israel/Palestine News
2006
May 10, 2006 Life goes from ‘bad to worse’ for Holy Land Christians, says charity
NGO Action News, April–May
April 28, 2006 GAC approves suggestion of task force on Israel/Palestine
April 27, 2006 G.A. moderator Ufford-Chase urges GAC to seek task force on Middle East issues
April 27, 2006 WCC protests settlers’ violence against Christian volunteers in Hebron
April 26, 2006 PC(USA) group is getting first-hand look at Israel/Palestine
April 26, 2006 West Bank Christians targeted in spate of unexplained fire-bombings
April 25– May 5, 2006 Peacemaking Education Event in Israel-Palestine
April 21, 2006 Schoolgirls stoned by Israeli settlers
April 20, 2006 Clerk issues statement on suicide bombing
April 13, 2006 U.S. evangelical groups establish pro-Israel lobby
April 12, 2006 WCC asks European Union to give new Palestinian authority more time
April 10, 2006 For Palestinian Christians, anxiety casts a pall over the Easter season
April 3, 2006 Christians in Holy Land warn Israel against unilateral withdrawals
March 28, 2006 Israel/Palestine issues will loom large at GA
March 27, 2006 Cable car planned to improve access to Jerusalem’s Western Wall
March 24, 2006 Lutherans urge world community not to cut off aid to Palestinians
March 14, 2006 Anglicans retreat on Israel divestment, but U.S. Jewish group isn’t satisfied
March 10, 2006 Churches around the world to demonstrate solidarity with Christians in the Holy Land
March 6, 2006 PC(USA) sends appeal to U.S. president with Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders
March 2006 Jerusalem: Eye of the Storm (Washington Office report)
March 1, 2006 Arab-Israeli, longtime partner of PC(USA) Elias Chacour, becomes archbishop of Greek Catholic church in Holy Land
February 2006 Oppose Punitive Measures Against Palestinian People
(Washington Office Report, March/April 2006 )
Feb. 27, 2006 Palestinians bow to Chinese pressure, won’t let Dalai Lama visit Bethlehem
Feb. 22, 2006 Israeli paper raps Dalai Lama for too-nice treatment of Hamas
Feb. 21, 2006 Rabbis for Human Rights to receive ’05 Niwano Peace Prize
Feb. 18, 2006 Church of England divestment vote criticized by British Jewish leader
Feb. 17, 2006 Bethlehem’s Christian minority concerned about Hamas’ rule
Feb. 16, 2006 Holy Land Christians seek Vatican aid
Feb. 15, 2006 WMD studying feasibility of investing in Palestinian economic development
Feb. 14, 2006 PC(USA) officials urge Palestinians to work for peace in the Middle East
Letters challenge Hamas, others to end ‘the current stalemate of hatred and violence’
Feb. 13, 2006 Quaker organization nominates Israeli, Palestinian for Peace Prize
Feb. 10, 2006 Lutheran bishop of Holy Land urges Christians, Muslims to be sensitive
Feb. 10, 2006 G.A. moderator reflects on faith-affirming tour of Asia and the Middle East
Feb. 10, 2006 Moderator asks for General Assembly Council’s help in dealing with stock-divestment issue
Feb. 9, 2006 Kirkpatrick/Ufford-Chase letter to the leadership of HAMAS Movement/Party
Feb. 9, 2006 Kirkpatrick letter to President Abbas in response to Palestinian elections
Feb. 7, 2006 Resolution urges PC(USA) to invest in economic development in Palestine
Feb. 7, 2006 Palestinian Christians, moderate Muslims fear Hamas may limit religious freedom
Feb. 6, 2006 MRTI won’t have any recommendations for GA on Israel/Palestine divestment issue
February 3, 2006 Representatives of PC(USA)’s Mission Responsibility Through Investment committee) meet with Citigroup and ITT Industries
Feb. 2, 2006 Holy Land Christians urge Hamas to keep teachings of Jesus in mind
Jan. 30, 2006 Hamas victory no cause for panic, bishop tells Holy Land Christians
Jan. 26, 2006 Letter to Acting Israeli Prime Minister re Ariel Sharon’s illness from the PC(USA) Stated Clerk
January. Outlook 2006: Pivotal Year for Israelis and Palestinians as Bush Administration Struggles with Iraq, Syria and Iran
PC(USA) Washington Office report
Jan. 26, 2006 Israel to relocate prison to preserve ancient church
Jan. 25, 2006 Sharon revered as a giant of Israel’s pioneering generation
Jan. 25, 2006 Christian Palestinian is candidate of controversial Islamic group Hamas
2005
December 2005 Message from Bethlehem (from the staff of the International Center of Bethlehem) (Presbyterian Washington Office report)
Dec. 14, 2005 Plenty of room in the inns this year Walled-in Bethlehem awaits rebirth of Christmas tourism
Dec. 8, 2005 Bethlehem pastor slams Sen. Clinton
Lutheran pastor accuses senator of using Palestinians as political fodder
Dec. 1, 2005 Palestinian cleric pleads for release of peace workers seized in Iraq
December 2005 A Strategic Approach to the U.S. Role in Israel-Palestinian Peacemaking (Washington Office report)
Nov. 28, 2005 Patriarch’s enthronement in Jerusalem puts Israel in quandary
Nov. 17, 2005 Archaeologists make ‘Goliath’ discovery
Inscription may be first evidence for famous Bible story of giant’s demise
November 11, 2005 Representatives of Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) meet with Motorola Corporation
Nov. 11, 2005 Stream in which Jesus was baptized has become an ‘open sewage canal’
Nov. 10, 2005 MRTI-Motorola meeting closed to media
Nov. 7, 2005 Israeli dig uncovers oldest Christian church in Holy Land
Oct. 28, 2005 PC(USA) official denounces Iranian’s anti-Israel remarks
Oct. 26, 2005 Power of the purse
MRTI staffer will be featured at Toronto conference on ‘responsible investing’
Oct. 24, 2005 Pro-Israel evangelical groups say divestment efforts are anti-Semitic
Oct. 21, 2005 New partitions at shrine in Jerusalem provoke wailing from women, non-Orthodox
Oct. 10, 2005 Anti-terror wall is ruining Jerusalem, according to Israeli think-tank study
Oct. 4, 2005 Pope and Israeli president will meet in Vatican next month
Oct. 4, 2005 Officials fear Temple Mount dig could spark Jewish-Muslim violence
October 2005 The New Debate on Foreign Aid to Israel and the Palestinians (Washington Office report)
Sept. 29, 2005 Christians to join on ‘party line’ to pray for peace in Jerusalem
Sept. 29, 2005 Not sparring partners
Interfaith group says people of different beliefs can work together for peace in Israel/Palestine
Sept. 23, 2005 Trip to Israel and Palestine showed ‘Christians and Jews can work together to achieve peace’ (NCC release)
Sept. 14, 2005 Letter lauds Israelis for Gaza pullout
Removal of settlements presents ‘moment of hope,’ PC(USA) leaders say
Sept. 9, 2005 Israel must ask Palestinian Authority to care for Gaza synagogues, court rules
Sept. 6, 2005 Arab Christians could help bridge gulf dividing world religions, columnist says
Sept. 2, 2005 Fare market economy
For the odd tourist in Bethlehem it’s easy to catch a cab
Sept. 1, 2005 If politicians can’t achieve Mideast peace, Lutheran bishop says, church leaders must
Aug. 31, 2005 Rabbis forbid razing of Gaza synagogues
August 22, 2005 Greek Orthodox elect new patriarch of Holy Land
Theofilos promises to annul all leases of church property to Israelis
August 9, 2005 Officials of firms on ‘engagement’ list defend business practices in Israel-Palestine
Some express puzzlement; others are sticking to earlier statements
August 5, 2005 Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) names companies for ‘progressive engagement’ over role in Middle East violence
August 5, 2005 Invested in justice
Presbyterians attend committee meeting to support GA’s Israel-Palestine action
August 5, 2005 5 corporations selected for talks about ties to Mideast violence
Church assessing ethics of investments
August 2005 To Evaluate the Gaza Pullout Look for Seven Signs of Peace
Information brief from the international affairs unit of the World Council of Churches
June 28, 2005 Angelican council backs investment boycott over Palestine
June 15, 2005 Lutheran leader in Holy Land urges tolerance
June 8, 2005 New Bethlehem mayor eyes Christian revival
Roman Catholic was elected with support of Islamic militant group Hamas
June 8, 2005 Israel’s 1st woman rabbi: tolerance a hard sell
June 3, 2005 Beyond dialogue
Interfaith group will try to blaze trail to ‘peaceful coexistence’
June 2, 2005 Anglicans to consider Israeli divestment
June 2005 The PCUSA, divestment and Israel (Presbyterian Today, “Go Figure” department)
May/June 2005 Christ’s Reconciliation-Dare We Live It?
A Question for the Children of Abraham in the Middle East
Read the full text in May/June 2005 issue of Horizons
May/June 2005 Standing Together for Peace
An interpretation of the actions of GA commissioners on divestment issues in Palestine and Israel by Rick Ufford-Chase
Read the full text in May/June 2005 issue of Horizons
May/June 2005 Continuing the Conversation
Reflections by Rabbi Gaylia Rooks on Jewish and Presbyterian “dialogue at the crossroads”
Read the full text in May/June 2005 issue of Horizons
May 31, 2005 Family trees
Palestinians losing orchards they have tended for centuries
May 31, 2005 Battle fields
As Israeli settlements expand, Palestinian farmers harvest gall
May 26, 2005 Christians push non-violence in Holy Land
Israelis say ‘peacemakers’ view conflict from a skewed perspective
May 19, 2005 UCC to consider Israeli divestment
May 2005 Gaza Withdrawal Must Be Just the First Step Toward a Successful Palestinian State (Washington Office Report)
May 11, 2005 18 ’accompaniers’ arrive in Palestine
April 22, 2005 Jews prepare to celebrate Passover
April 14, 2005 150 rally outside Caterpillar meeting
Protest sparked by Israel’s bulldozing of Palestinian homes
April 13, 2005 Conference organizers on a mission
Athens, Orthodox church to host WCC’s global gathering
April 12, 2005 Photo Essay – Artists protest wall in Bethlehem
April 12, 2005 Palestinian Christian group backs divestment
Jewish leaders say policy is one-sided, unfair and ‘anti-Semitic’
April 7, 2005 Land locked
Palestinians survey ancestral property —through a fence
April 1, 2005 Buyer’s market
Jerusalem merchants seem to outnumber tourist customers
April 1, 2005 ACSWP chair decries staff dismissals
April 1, 2005 ‘A learning experience’
Middle East tour was more than Hezbollah visit, GAC, COGA are told
March 30, 2005 Cross fertilization
Holy Land rife with Christian symbol of one and many meanings
March 29, 2005 Presbytery cuts ties with Messianic Jewish congregation Relationship with Philadelphia’s Avodat Yisrael ends July 1
March 24, 2005 Awaiting the resurrection
In Christianity’s birthplace, Christians cling to hope
March 23, 2005 Palestinians want Greek patriarch expelled
Orthodox leader accused of selling Jerusalem land to Jews
March 21, 2005 No hosannas
Israeli army stops Palm Sunday procession short of Jerusalem
March 21, 2005 Israeli Christian kids return to schools
Druze conciliatory after riots sparked by baseless rumor
March 18, 2005 Jews, Presbyterians share anger, hurt, hope
250 gather in Charlotte for ‘Disagreement and Dialogue’
March 9, 2005 Bruce Gillette speaks to the United Nations on Israel and Palestine
March 7, 2005 Under the radar
Ignorance of Assembly’s Israel/Palestine votes no surprise, leaders say
March 1, 2005 Holy Land’s Lutheran church changes name to reflect realities
March 2005 Jerusalem: The Key to Peace, or a Fuse for Conflict? (Washington Office Report)
February 28, 2005 Israel and US Jewish groups denounce WCC stance on divestment
February 23, 2005 Church Holy Land project aims to help both Israelis and Palestinians
February 22, 2005 World Council of Churches gives nod to Israeli divestment proposal
February 17, 2005 Israeli rabbi works for peace, yet understands the need to feel safe
February 22, 2005 correction:
February 16, 2005 Palestinian Christians share their experience under occupation
February 15, 2005 Israeli police patrol Galilee village after inter-communal riots
February 15, 2005 Middle East conference distributed wealth of resources
February 15 , 2005 Jews balk at PC(USA)’s explanation for divestment
February 12, 2005 “Steps Toward Peace in Israel and Palestine” conference a great success
February 11, 2005 MRTI still in research phase of divestment process related to Israel, Palestine
Ecumenical partners’ actions creating ‘movement,’ Bill S-J says
February 10, 2005 Poll: Most PC(USA) members unaware of GA divestment action
February 8, 2005 NCC Middle East delegation concludes visit, issues statement
February 4, 2005 Church group urges U.S. to step up involvement in Middle East
February 1, 2005 Alleged scam in Israel taints more than just biblical archaeology
February 1, 2005 Review team calls Detterick’s actions ‘fully compliant’
Committee upholds process for staff firings
January 31, 2005 Israeli and Palestinian tourism officials seek meeting with Pope
January 31, 2005 Israeli chief rabbi’s visit to Patriarchate seen as bid to improve relations
January 31, 2005 Review of staff dismissals under way today
Reinstatement of Lueckert, Sulyok not on the agenda
January 27, 2005 Middle East forum set for PC(USA) middle governing bodies
January 21, 2005 Letter to Bush says Israeli-Palestinian conflict threatens U.S.
January 13, 2005 Religious leaders push president to focus on Middle East peace
PC(USA)’s Kirkpatrick is part of Washington delegation
January 3, 2005 Christmas in the real Bethlehem
January/February 2005 Accepting responsibility (Presbyterians Today “The Church in Society” column)
January 2005 Outlook 2005: Hope for Peace in the Holy Land, Ongoing War in Iraq, and New Worries (Washington Office Report)
2004
December 15, 2004 Denominational leaders, ACSWP delegation exchange letters over fallout from Hezbollah visit
December 14, 2004 Jewish woman joins Israel/Palestine accompaniers
December 10, 2004 Presbyterian group seeks moratorium on Israel divestment moves
December 9, 2004 Snapshots from Bethlehem
December 7, 2004 Science offers new theories on star of Bethlehem
December 2004 How Would Mary and Joseph Have Fared at a Checkpoint? (OGA Perspectives )
November-December 2004 Wrap-Up 2004 (Washington Office Report)
November 29, 2004 Rights group calls on Caterpillar to halt bulldozer sales to Israel
November 12, 2004 With death of Arafat, Muslims and Jews look forward
November 12, 2004 PC(USA) receives arson threat
November 11, 2004 Denominational leaders offer comfort amidst Palestinian transition
November 11, 2004 Jerusalem bishop appeals to Christian leaders after Vanunu held
November 9, 2004 Criteria set for Israeli divestment targets
November 2004 The Power of the Weak
(OGA Perspectives)
October 28, 2004 Christian tourists overcome fear, return to Israel
October 21, 2004 Delegation’s meeting with Hezbollah ‘misguided’ and statements ‘reprehensible,’ PC(USA) officials tell Jewish leaders
October 20, 2004 PC(USA) leaders disavow comments made by delegation members in Lebanon
October 19, 2004 Spitting triggers Jewish-Christian tension in Jerusalem’s Old City
October 15, 2004 Corries push U.S. government to investigate their daughter’s death
October 11, 2004 Jewish peace group challenges Caterpillar’s Israel business
October 6, 2004 Divesting could harden Israel on Palestinian issue, groups warn
October 6, 2004 Talk of the town: PC(USA) divestment decision sparks huge interest in Bethlehem
October 5, 2004 Episcopalians likely to consider Israeli divestment
October 2004 “Are You Afraid?” ( Presbyterians Today “The Church in Society ” column)
(October 2004) Hopes Revive for U.S. as Honest Broker, as Palestinian Elections Renew Peace Prospects (Washington Office Mideast Network 4th quarter 2004 bulletin)
September 30, 2004 High-level Presbyterians and Jews discuss Israel divestment
September 29, 2004 Christian peace activists attacked in West Bank city of Hebron
September 29, 2004 Israel and Palestine-An Ongoing Conversation
September 28, 2004 Israeli and Palestinian issue warning on Israel ‘ s security barrier
September 25, 2004 GAC authorizes pastoral letter on Assembly’s divestment action
September 24, 2004 Fourteen Congressional reps push PC(USA) to rescind divestment decision
September 24, 2004 Anglican delegation pushes for divestment from Israel
September 20, 2004 Accompaniers to speak about nonviolent presence in Palestine and Israel
September 30, 2004 High-level Presbyterians and Jews discuss Israel divestment
September 29, 2004 Christian peace activists attacked in West Bank city of Hebron
September 28, 2004 Israeli and Palestinian issue warning on Israel’s security barrier
September 25, 2004 GAC authorizes pastoral letter on Assembly’s divestment action
September 24, 2004 Fourteen Congressional reps push PC(USA) to rescind divestment decision
September 24, 2004 Anglican delegation pushes for divestment from Israel
September 16, 2004 Sukkot: a weeklong Jewish holiday, teaches joy in the darkness
September 2004 Reflections on Final Leg of the Journey
(OGA Perspectives)
August 2, 2004 Nuns squeeze Caterpillar
August 2, 2004 Taking stock of taking stock: Church researching ’selective’ divestment in Israel-related firms
August 2004 Words—and Actions—for Justice and Peace
(OGA Perspectives)
July 21, 2004 Clerk issues statement on GA actions on Israel
July 16, 2004 Palestinian wall hunger strike gets support of Christian volunteers
July 14, 2004 Court decision on Israeli ’security’ barrier draws reaction
July 9, 2004 The United Nations and the Separation Wall
July 2, 2004 Assembly endorses Israel divestment
Palestinian says merely issuing another statement is not enough
July 1, 2004 Middle East Christians cling to hope
(July 2004) Does U.S. Political Weakness on Israel-Palestine Heighten the Terrorist Threat? (Washington Office Mideast Network 3rd quarter 2004 bulletin)
June 30, 2004 No promised land
Middle East Christians hang tough in tough circumstances
June 26, 2004 ‘Tear down this wall’: Palestinians urge U.S. Christians to do more than just talk
June 18, 2004 RCA calls ‘Christian Zionism’ an obstacle in Mideast
June 9, 2004 Holy Land Christian leaders believe prayers answered
June 8, 2004 Religious leaders urge administration action on Mideast
June 3, 2004 Correction to Interfaith Relations story
June 3 2004 Intimate Implications: Political stress interrupts mother-baby bond in Gaza City
June 1, 2004 Interfaith relations: General Assembly backgrounder
May-June 2004 Palestinians Must Be Party to Gaza and West Bank Negotiations (Washington OfficeReport)
April 27, 2004 Stated Clerk decries Bush’s Middle East shift: Kirkpatrick letter says future peace is ‘undermined’
April 26, 2004 Wall of Babel
accompanying photo essay, Photo Thoughts by David Young
April 26, 2004 20 new accompaniers arrive in Palestine/Israel
April 23, 2004 Muslim scholars urge Christians to engage Islam
April 16, 2004 Coalition raps Bush on Israeli settlements
April 14, 2004 More pilgrims celebrate Easter in Holy Land in 2004
(April 2004) Actions and Inactions by Sharon and Bush Put Two-State Solution at Risk (Washington Office Mideast Network 2nd quarter 2004 bulletin)
March 25, 2004 Holy Land Christians See a bleak Easter in the offing
March 24, 2004 Sharing the ‘core narrative’: Official wants Christians, Jews to talk about faith, not religion
January-February 2004 Desperation Deepens for Palestinians in Occupied Territories (Washington Office Report)
January/February 2004 “A new direction?” ( Presbyterians Today “The Church in Society ” column)
(January 2004) Elusive Peacemaking Compels Concrete Action (Washington Office Mideast Network 1st quarter 2004 bulletin)
2003
November-December 2003 Wrap-Up (Washington Office Report)
December 9, 2003 In Holy Land, Christmas is a low-key affair
December 2003 Outlook 2004: Politics in the U.S. Overtake Policies and Peacemaking in the Middle East (PC(USA) Washington Office)
November 18, 2003 Christians, Jews and Muslims get Holy Land meeting place
November 13, 2003 Jerusalem churches urge protests against wall in West Bank
October 2003 “Symbols of brokenness” ( Presbyterians Today “The Church in Society ” column)
(October 2003) The Holy Land Needs Bridges, Not Walls (Washington Office Mideast Network 4th quarter 2003 bulletin)
September 2003 Prayers for Peace in the Middle East
(OGA Perspectives)
(July 2003) A New Approach to Security and Development (Washington Office Mideast Network 3rd quarter 2003 bulletin)
May/June 2003 Thank You—Shukran
(OGA Perspectives)
May/June 2003 When there’s nothing left to say
(OGA Perspectives)
May 2003 Presbyterians Today interview of Fahed Abu-Akel, Palestinian and Presbyterian
April 17, 2003 In Easter messages, Christian leaders call for end to Palestinian suffering
(April 2003) Christian Commitment to Peacemaking Is Distorted by Christian Zionists (Washington Office Mideast Network 2nd quarter 2003 bulletin)
March/April 2003 Health Conditions Worsen in Gaza and West Bank (Washington Office Report)
February 6, 2003 Jerusalem’s Anglican bishop threatens to sue Israelis over church bombing
January 6, 2003 Israelis caught dozing
(January 2003) While Eyes Are Focused on Iraq: An Update from Washington on Israeli-Palestinian Issues (Washington Office Mideast Network 1st quarter 2003 bulletin)
2002
October 29, 2002 Strange fruit– Israeli volunteers serve as ‘human shields’ in West Bank orchards
October 24, 2002 Christian leaders from Jerusalem blocked from attending interfaith meeting in London
(October 2002) Demand on Settlements Must Be Bush’s Response to Israel’s Aid Request Action (Washington Office Mideast Network 4th quarter 2002 bulletin)
October 2002 Reveries of a Motherless Child
(OGA Perspectives)
September 16, 2002 Jerusalem hospital faces closure by Israeli tax
(July 2002) Iraq War Plans Consume Israel-Palestinian Peacemaking (Washington Office Mideast Network 3rd quarter 2002 bulletin)
May 28, 2002 A Statement Abhorring Violence Against Jews
(April 2002) Current U.S. Debate Lacks Palestinian Christian Viewpoint (Washington Office Mideast Network 2nd quarter 2002 bulletin)
March 26, 2002 Palestinian Christians see bleak Easter
March 27, 2002 Israeli, Palestinian Religious Leaders Meet to Find a Way to Peace
Filling the Void of U.S. Inaction (Washington Office Mideast Network 1st quarter 2002 bulletin)
2001
October 2001Mideast Peace: New Strategies for a New Era (Washington Office Mideast Network 4th quarter 2001 bulletin)
September 13, 2001 Both Jews, Palestinians identify with terror victims
August 28, 2001 Church, orphanage invaded by Israeli army
August 17, 2001 Amid fears for future, Jerusalem’s churches embark on prayers for peace
August 10, 2001 Consultation on Israeli-Palestinian conflict decides on coordinated ecumenical action
(July 2001) Cycle of Violence Requires Larger U.N. Role (Washington Office Mideast Network 3rd quarter 2001 bulletin)
June 14, 2001 Egyptian press officer is here to follow the PC(USA)’s stands on the Middle East
June 9, 2001 Church Leaders Press Powell on Middle East Violence
(April 2001) Freeze Israeli Settlements (Washington Office Mideast Network 2nd quarter 2001 bulletin)
March 2, 2001 Christians say non-violence is the key to struggle against Israeli “apartheid”
February 20, 2001 Wasteland: Holy places in strife-torn Bethlehem are attracting few tourists these days
(January 2001) Oppose Increasing Military Aid to Israel (Washington Office Mideast Network 1st quarter 2001 bulletin)
2000
December 19, 2000 Kirkpatrick asks Presbyterians to work for peace in the Holy Land
December 19, 2000 Arafat warns that the Palestinians are facing ‘a disaster’
December 14, 2000 Starvation threatens Palestinian villages, Vatican official warns
December 14, 2000 Peace delegation meets with Israeli leaders, issues final statement at press conference
December 13, 2000 Christian leaders determined to continue their witness in Jerusalem, despite dwindling numbers
November 21, 2000 Violence keeps Palestinians from olive harvest: Sympathetic Israelis take to the groves to help neighbors fend off rot and ruin
October 31, 2000 Presbyterian mission volunteer in Jerusalem pleads for peace
October 30, 2000 Latin Patriarch tells Israeli soldiers to stop attacking Christian village
October 27, 2000 Palestinians fret for rock-tossing youngsters
October 24, 2000 Moderator undertakes Middle East peace mission
October 20, 2000 Church leader accuses Israel of ‘ethnic cleansing’ of Palestinians
October 16, 2000 Stated Clerk urges President to step up Middle East peace efforts
October 13, 2000 Despite violence and hatred, Holy Land’s Christians still hope for peace
October 13, 2000 Jerusalem’s Lutheran hospital caught up in the conflict
October 13, 2000 Palestinian pastors decry excessive use of force by Israel
(October 2000) Sharing Jerusalem Central to New Negotiations (Washington Office Mideast Network 4th quarter 2000 bulletin)
September 12, 2000 Kirkpatrick, other leaders urge Clinton to strive to keep Jerusalem open to all
September 5, 2000 Presidential candidates statements on Israel are under scrutiny
August 24, 2000 Old Testament “war stories” wound Palestinian Christians
August 9, 2000 Christian, Muslim leaders discuss status of Jerusalem, holy sites
July 19, 2000 Palestinian Christian leader calls for shared Jerusalem
July 19, 2000 Israeli, Palestinian peacemakers find themselves roommates in Louisville
(July 2000) Palestinian Refugees-Still Waiting (Washington Office Mideast Network 3rd quarter 2000 bulletin)
(April 2000) High Priority for the Israeli-Palestinian Talks (Washington Office Mideast Network 2nd quarter 2000 bulletin)
(January 2000) Support for Sharing Jerusalem Grows (Washington Office Mideast Network 1st quarter 2000 bulletin)
1999
November 18, 1999 Presbyterian Women “No Longer Strangers” after Visit to the Middle East
February 26, 1999 Churches Question Whether Holy Land Is Ready For Six Million Pilgrims
February 5, 1999 U.S. Clergy Urge End to Palestine Rights Abuse
February 25, 1998 “Outrage” at Oppression of Palestinians Expressed at Theology Meeting in Bethlehem
February 12, 1998 Israel’s Anti-Missionary Bill Raises Fears for Some Christians
July 1, 1997 With Peace Process in Shambles, Palestinian Christian Leaders Seek New Strategies
October 18, 1996 GAC Endorses Open Jerusalem Advertisement
Recent Articles by Rabbis for Human Rights
- Sukkoth, Human Rights and Peace - October 9th, 2008
- Yom Kippur Vidui - October 1st, 2008
- RHR helps families access burial plots - July 18th, 2008
- In Memoriam: Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev - July 15th, 2008
- Huqqat: Human Rights and a pure society - July 1st, 2008
- Shelah: Human Rights in a lush and bountiful land - June 15th, 2008
- Behar: Human Rights and Social Justice - May 16th, 2008
- Prayer for the State of Israel - May 7th, 2008
- Tractate Independence - May 1st, 2008
- Rabbi Ben Hollander zekher tzadik livrakha - February 10th, 2008
- Noah: Righteousness in Our Generation - October 15th, 2007
- Yom Kippur - September 20th, 2007
- Make Your Voice Heard: A Guide to Israeli Government Officials - July 22nd, 2007
- Parashat Vayechi - July 9th, 2007
- Yitro/Meira welt - July 9th, 2007
- JURY AND BEIT DIN - DEVAR TORAH FOR SHABBAT MISHPATIM - July 9th, 2007
- Dvar Torah - Parashat Va-Yakhel-Pekudei - July 9th, 2007
- Dvar Torah Parashat Vayikra - July 8th, 2007
- Dvar Torah - Parashat Shemini: When Words Fail Us. - July 8th, 2007
- Dvar Torah – Parashat Metzorah - July 8th, 2007
- Dvar Torah – Bamidbar - July 8th, 2007
- Dvar Torah - The Value of Peace As a Religious Goal - July 8th, 2007
- Dvar Torah – B’Haalotkha - July 8th, 2007
- Desecrating Their Graves- Desecrating Our Souls - July 8th, 2007
- Dvar Torah – Parashat Balak - July 8th, 2007
- Happy are they who maintain justice, and do righteousness at all times - June 27th, 2007
- Rabbis for Human Rights Annual General Meeting - February 22nd, 2007
- Stop Wisconsin - February 8th, 2007
- Tu B'shvat: Our tradition of Human Rights for all of G-d's creations - February 1st, 2007
- Tu B'shvat: Partners in Creation and protecting the Human Rights of all - February 1st, 2007
- Tu BShvat: RHR to plant trees in the Galilee - January 29th, 2007
- RHR officiates at memorial service for victims of the 2007 State Budget - January 2nd, 2007
- Rabbis for Human Rights seeks to increase Health Care Budget - December 25th, 2006
- Our Mission - November 21st, 2006
- Educational Programs and Planting Trees - November 21st, 2006
- Human Rights Education Programs - November 21st, 2006
- Indentured Servants - November 21st, 2006
- Interfaith Dialogue - November 21st, 2006
- Economic and Social Justice - November 21st, 2006
- Professor Aviezer Ravitzky is seriously injured - October 16th, 2006
- Rabbi Max Warschawski zt"l - September 14th, 2006
- Supporters - September 9th, 2006
- Olive Tree Campaign - September 9th, 2006
- Human Rights Educational Initiatives - September 6th, 2006
- Separation Barrier - September 6th, 2006
- Human Rights Yeshiva - September 2nd, 2006
- Defense of Palestinian Human Rights - September 1st, 2006
- Women's Rights - September 1st, 2006
- Israeli Arabs Rights - September 1st, 2006
- Principles of Faith - September 1st, 2006
- Rabbis for Human Rights - September 1st, 2006
- Wanted: People to adopt people from disaster afflicted areas - August 11th, 2006
- RHR rabbis and volunteers visit the bomb-shelters in Qiriat Bialik - August 3rd, 2006
- Jerusalem Mayor announces intention to demolish home - July 28th, 2006
- Prof. Shlomo Avineri discusses Israel Citizenship Law with Rabbis For Human Rights - July 9th, 2006
- Human Rights and Self-Defense: Open meeting of the RHR Human Rights Yeshiva. - May 26th, 2006
- Arab World Human Rights Organizations - May 23rd, 2006
- International NGO Human Rights Organizations - May 23rd, 2006
- Palestine National Authority NGO Human Rights Organizations - May 23rd, 2006
- Israeli NGO Human Rights Organizations - May 23rd, 2006
- Resource Centers - May 23rd, 2006
- RHR Dedicates New Office and Celebrates Niwano Peace Prize - May 19th, 2006
- Economic Justice - May 15th, 2006
- Guarantee Agricultural Access: Participate in planting, plowing, pruning, reaping and and harvesting efforts - May 15th, 2006
- Action Center - May 15th, 2006
- Education - May 15th, 2006
- Economic, Social and Cultural rights - May 15th, 2006
- Children - May 15th, 2006
- Business & Human Rights - May 15th, 2006
- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights - May 15th, 2006
- Rabbis for Human Rights Receives Niwano Peace Prize - May 11th, 2006
- Dialogue with the Presbyterian Church USA - April 21st, 2006
- Who Sits With Us At Our Seder?: Haggadah Supplement 5766 - April 7th, 2006
- Board of Directors - January 9th, 2006
- What you can do - January 5th, 2006
- Contact Rabbis for Human Rights - September 14th, 2003
- Protect Housing Rights: Act against discrimination in matters relating to land, development and housing construction. - April 16th, 2003
- Donate - January 14th, 2003
- Who We Are - January 21st, 2000
Rabbis for Human Rights recommends that you read these articles in Dialogue with the Presbyterian Church
- Dialogue with the Presbyterian Church USA - April 21st, 2006
Rabbis for Human Rights recommends that you read these articles in Dialogues
- Dialogue with the Presbyterian Church USA - April 21st, 2006
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