Friends in Christ:
Recent events in the Middle East and the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas have dominated the headlines and opened and reopened deep wounds among all who care for the people and the rich history of this troubled part of the world. Many of us have visited the Holy Land or know people who have lived and worked there, and the painful and complex history of this current conflict is difficult for us to fully understand. We do know, however, that the path toward a peaceful resolution is long and difficult, and we lift our prayers for strength and courage as those directly involved and impacted work together for peace. I encourage you to read the recently issued letters from ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and Bishop Ibrahim Azar of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land, and to continue to offer your fervent prayers for peace.
In Christ,
Bishop Paul Erickson
