A delegation from the British section of the ecumenical Catholic peace movement Pax Christi has set off on a six-day support and learning visit to various parts of Israel-Palestine.
Ekklesia
The group, who are all involved in education for peace, will be based in Bethlehem and will go around to meet with Pax Christi partners in the area, to meet with teachers’ and women’s groups, and to join members of the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Israel and Palestine (EAPPI), seeing first hand their work in Hebron and Bethlehem.
On Saturday 14 February 2009, the delegation will join with partners at the Arab Educational Institute for a candle- lit vigil near the separation wall in the area of Rachel’s Tomb, for peace in Israel and Palestine. This is in solidarity with a similar vigil that will be held in Gaza, coordinated by Manal Timraz, a Palestinian Muslim from Gaza who lives in Coventry. Manal lost 12 members of her family in Gaza in January 2009.
Pax Christi has encouraged members and friends to join in prayers for the delegation and for peace in the troubled territories. It says it is delighted at the number of people from around the country who will hold vigils or services on the 14 February.
Pax Christi, meaning ‘Peace of Christ’, is a gospel-based lay-inspired, peacemaking movement. Founded in the Catholic Church, its membership is open to individuals, groups and organisations of all faiths who are in sympathy with its aims and values. It is affiliated to Pax Christi International.
Pax Christi strives to help the Church and the wider community to proclaim and to make peace, through its experience and ideas, and especially through the witness and action of its members.
