November 2014 Newsletter The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem Peace to you in the Name of the Lord Greetings from Archbishop Suheil Dawani Dear Friends, As we move into the hope-filled season of Advent, we have many reasons to celebrate. Our annual Majma (Synod) meeting in Amman affirmed the new direction of the Diocese as we seek to bolster our parishes and institutions and, in turn, improve our services to the wider community. During my visit to Beirut and official visits to the West Bank municipalities of Hebron and Nablus, I was reminded of the great potential of the people of this land, as well as the critical need for our Diocese to continue to support individuals, families and communities in living out this God given potential. In Jerusalem, the Heads of Churches and interfaith community banded together to call for an end to the recent cycle of violence, confident that religion need not be divisive, but rather a force for good, especially when it promotes peace, justice and reconciliation. In spite of all the challenges in this region, with the grace of God and the support of our friends, we are able to hold firm and, through our parishes, and institutions of healthcare and learning, make a positive contribution throughout the Middle East. I pray that this Christmas season, as you celebrate the coming of the Prince of Peace, your lives will be blessed with love, peace and joy! Salaam, Peace Archbishop Suheil Dawani Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem www.j-diocese.org
[email protected] Editor: The Most Rev’d Archbishop Suheil S.