The terrible events in the most recent outbreak of conflict in the Middle East will be very much on everyone’s minds. The suffering on both sides with the loss of life and injuries, and the deprivation in Gaza is disturbing. We will arrange a collection at church to provide support and aid to the victims through Embrace, formerly The Bible Lands. Embrace has been active in the Middle East for decades. The charity works in the Middle East to tackle poverty and injustice in the region. They work with partners in Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria and Israel/Palestine, supporting health, education and community projects which bring vital services to those at risk of marginalisation and exclusion. We shall have a collection plate available for your donations. We hope to have Embrace envelopes available so that donations can be gift aided. We will operate this throughout the month of November. There are many prayers which have been made available for use. Here is one from the President and Vice President of Conference:
God of peace and compassion,
We pray for all impacted by the escalation in conflict in Israel-Palestine
For all who are mourning
For all who are fearful, today, and for what may lie ahead
For all traumatised and re-traumatised by what they have experienced.
Enable us to stand in solidarity with people of peace
May your Spirit bring peace and healing to your troubled world. Â
Amen.Â
Toll Gavel United Church where faith, people and justice matter 