The Land Called Holy

Many of you have learned that before moving to San Jose, I served for a year with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Young Adult in Global Mission program. I was assigned to the Jerusalem and West Bank team and embarked on the journey of a lifetime; learning and living with the Christians of the Holy Land.

As we begin to think about the holidays, our focus turns once again to the little town of Bethlehem--a quiet, hilly village awaiting the birth of our Savior. If Mary and Joseph were to come upon Bethlehem today, the town they would see would be much different. The once agricultural hillsides that lined the historic road to Bethlehem have been cleared for settlement expansion. These massive, modern settlements are considered illegal under international law and cover nearly every hilltop. A 25-foot high concrete wall greets visitors as they approach Bethlehem. This illegal barrier, built by the Israeli government for ‘security reasons’, confines the town of Bethlehem, cutting it off from nearby Jerusalem, the surrounding villages, and much of the Palestinian farmland. Palestinians from Bethlehem wishing to cross into Jerusalem must obtain permission from Israel, wait in grueling lines, and frequently undergo interrogation and humiliation to cross the checkpoint. Muslims and Christians wishing to visit religious sites in Jerusalem or Bethlehem must also apply for permits, available only during holidays and on special occasions.

The list of illegal, violent, and unethical methods of occupation that Israeli imposes on Palestine is long--too long for this short article. The collective impact of these egregious acts could be described as suffocating. Yet through these dire circumstances, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land continues to shine as a beacon of hope, life, and faith. The vibrant ministries of the Lutheran church include 6 churches, schools, community services, and the continually growing International Center in Bethlehem (including The Cave gift shop, where the Alternative Christmas Fair items are coming from). This Christmas season, I encourage you to learn about the Christians of the Holy Land and support the ministries of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land. More information can be found on their website: www.elcjhl.org. May we pray for the day when this land called Holy lives in justice and peace.

Chelsea