The War and Crisis in Israel / Palestine
“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”
– Martin Luther King, Jr. (Washington DC Address, February 1968)
Disciples and the UCC were among Twenty-Seven Christian Churches and agencies to address a letter to Congress about the ongoing war in Israel / Palestine. Find the letter here (published October 12, 2023).
“It is our hope and prayer that the leaders and people of Israel and Palestine will find a way to come together in the spirit of cooperation, love, and justice, with the goal of achieving a just and lasting peace for the benefit of all involved. In the meantime, we extend our support and prayers to all who are affected by the ongoing violence, and we continue to hold onto the belief that peace, compassion, and justice will ultimately prevail. May grace and love be with all God's children in this difficult time.”
– Rev. B.J. Barlow, Associate Regional Minister, PSWR and Pastor, First Christian Church, Ontario
A Great Summit and Gathering
What a Pastoral Summit! Our Pastors, Chaplains, Clergy and Retired Clergy joined together for a couple of days (October 12th – 13th), just before the Regional Gathering. It was a time of great recreation, fellowship, rest, refreshment, and sessions for the soul. We trust those who were able to attend felt appreciated and valued for their ministries. Instruction and support came by way of Joselyn Spence and Sarah Serrano, Mental Health, and Wellness Initiative at National Benevolent Association. The Summit’s grand finale was a performance by the Leo Powell and Friends band. Leo’s Dad, Drew Powell and Trudie Kirkland helped to entertain, sing, and bring us a spirited experience. All the band are members (including John Dixon and Matt Carmody) of First Christian Church, North Hollywood, each made the night beautiful and special, indeed. Too, we received event support from Greg Kirkland and Erin Zavala.
What a Regional Gathering! Words cannot express enough our deep heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the long list of PSWR Disciples and partners who made the celebration of our covenantal relationship so special. Our Regional Gathering Worship Experience was amazing. We were led in a morning guided meditation by Rev. Dr. Christy Newton, Executive Director, Disciples Seminary Foundation and were blessed with a keynote sermon by Rev. Yolanda Norton, Founder and Director of the Global Arts and Theology Experience. We experienced a wonderful array of workshops including two in Spanish led by Rev. Dr. Esther Robles, Education Coordinator, Obra Hispana, Central Pastoral Office for Hispanic Ministries.
We are glad for the scholarship of Rev. Dr. Aizaiah G. Yong, and Dr. Sharon Jacob who offered us a session considering the scripture and reflection on our Regional Gathering Theme, With All (Matthew 22:37 NRSV).
Amid these times of war around the world, difficult loss, distress, challenges, and struggles we do not lose “infinite hope.” “…Hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” - Romans 5:5 NLT
Highlights of the day can be viewed through photos and videos on our Regional Gathering webpage.
With gratitude, prayers, and infinite hope,
Richie