Another long and busy day! This morning we heard from a human rights group, "The Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions," prior to touring parts of East Jerusalem to see first hand the Palestinian house demolitions which have been replaced by Israeli settlements.
At noontime we participated with "women in black," a group of Israeli women who have been demonstrating against the Israeli occupation every Friday afternoon from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. since 1987. I stood between an Israeli woman in her 70's named Tamar and a Lutheran from Scotland named Neils. While there are some Israeli's in Jerusalem who favor a peaceful solution to the conflict, it was clear from the response of many, that is not the opinion of the majority. A lot of pain and emotion from the many sides.
Late this afternoon we participated in an action in Sheikh Jarah, a Palestinian village in East Jerusalem near the Old City where Palestinian families have been recently evicted to make room for Jewish settlers. Hundreds were present, including not only Palestinians, but people from throughout the world, as well a small number of Israeli's. While there were a number of police officers standing by, a peaceful demonstration with a very loving spirit.
Overall a good day. Getting ready for dinner and a nice relaxing evening on the patio of the hostel in the Old City.
May the peace of Christ dwell in our hearts,
Pastor Dick
Friday, 7/23 7:15 p.m. Jerusalem time
I look forward to your blog every day! We made it to NY with no problems. You must be having an amazing time. Remember lots of pictures. Miss you!
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