Bible Lands Winter 2020 Magazine of the and the Middle East Church Association

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Embrace the Middle East...... p.4 Explosion in Beirut...... p.6 New bishop in Jerusalem...... p.7 Safe migration...... p.9 Book Reviews...... p.19 THE JERUSALEM AND Bible Lands Editor Letters, articles, comments are welcomed by the Editor: THE MIDDLE EAST CHURCH The Reverend Dr. Stephen W. Need ASSOCIATION Email: [email protected] The next issue will be published in June for (JMECA) Summer 2021. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily Founded in 1887 those of the Association; therefore only signed articles ‘To encourage support in prayer, money and will be published. personal service for the religious and other Front cover photo: Beirut: Diocese of Jerusalem, charitable work of the Episcopal church in Hassan Ammar. Jerusalem and the Middle East’. JMECA Website www.jmeca.org.uk Reg. Charity no. 1158476 www.jmeca.org.uk The site has information for each of the dioceses with links to the websites and regular updates of Middle East Patron news. The Most Reverend and Right Honourable The Archbishop of Canterbury THE CENTRAL SYNODS OF THE TWO PROVINCES Chairman The Reverend Canon Anthony Ball Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East Administrator President: The Most Rev Mrs. Shirley Eason Diocesan Office, PO Box 22075, 1517 Nicosia Tel: +357 22671220 Website: www.cypgulf.org Assistant: Mrs. Shirley Atkins 1 Hart House, The Hart Secretary: Mrs Georgia Katsantonis Email: [email protected] Farnham GU9 7HJ, Surrey. Treasurer: Mr Ehab Edward Khalil [email protected] Diocese of Jerusalem Office days: Monday to Friday, 9.30am – 2.00pm. The Most Rev Tel/Fax 01252 726994 Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, PO Box 19122 The Council of JMECA delegates the administration 65, Road, Jerusalem 91191 of its assets to a Standing Committee which is Tel: +972 2 6272932 Website: www.j-diocese.org Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf THE JERUSALEM AND THE EAST MISSION TRUST The Most Rev Michael Lewis LIMITED (JEMT) (details as above) Administrator as above Directors Vacant Province of Alexandria Mr. John Clark (Chairman) President: The Most Rev Dr. Clare Amos All Saints’ Cathedral, PO Box 87, Mr. Andrew Hill Distribution Zamalek, Cairo, Mr. John G Pringle (Hon Treasurer) Tel: +20 2 2738 0821 The Reverend Dr. William Taylor [email protected] Mr. David Wright OBE Website: www.diocese ofegypt.org The Reverend Canon Hugh Wybrew Secretary: tbc The Reverend Canon Dr Matthew Rhodes Treasurer: tbc Diocese of North Consultants The Rt Rev Samy Fawzy The Reverend Dr. Stephen W. Need Diocese of the Horn of Africa Mr. Richard Owens OBE The Rt Rev Kuan Kim Seng Sir Harold Walker KCMG Diocese of Gambella Vacant

2 Mr John Clark, chair of the JMECA standing committee, writes:

Summer Bible Lands opened by referring to the crisis Bishop in Jerusalem, with a view to succeeding Archbishop caused by the coronavirus pandemic. As the year has Suheil in 2021. With the development of dioceses in the continued the impact of the virus on the Middle East and Province of Alexandria and consequently new bishops to North Africa has grown increasingly serious with almost be appointed, a new generation of episcopal leaders will 2.5million cases including Iran by the end of October be taking the two provinces forward into the new decade. and total deaths well in excess of 50,000. The impact on A report from the Provincial Administrator and Anglican national economies and the wealth of individuals has been Alliance Regional Facilitator for the Middle East, and devastating. numerous news items from the Diocese of Cyprus and The region is already afflicted by the consequences of the Gulf reflect vibrant church life in the region in spite of conflict in , Yemen, Iraq, Syria and unrest in Lebanon difficulties. and and the Palestinian territories. Millions of people News from Iran is limited but we do have news of the are refugees or internally displaced, levels of adult literacy change of use of the former Bishop’s House. are low despite a good education being the greatest single priority for families. Two-thirds of the population are under The new Province of Alexandria was inaugurated by the 30. In this context it is good that in this issue we learn of Archbishop of Canterbury at the end of June and this issue the social ministry of Embrace the Middle East which has provides extensive news and background about this major a wider brief than JMECA. development and the formation of some new dioceses. So now JMECA is providing support for two provinces. The The pandemic has had its impact on Christians and map on our back cover is marked by different colours so churches. With churches closed in most countries they can be clearly distinguished. Christians are not able to meet and so are isolated. In this issue Richard Sewell writes about the impact on the close JMECA itself is simplifying its structures. At its end of in Jerusalem. Closure has also had an effect on church November Annual General Meeting it will formally approve collections. Archbishop Mouneer, for example, wrote the a new constitution so that its trustee directors are the same other day that ‘many of the churches are now suffering as those of The Jerusalem and the Middle East Trust – and from very low income (few collections). They are not able in place of a Council it will hold an annual gathering for to support the salaries of all the staff.’ It has also had an representatives of the provinces in Britain and interested impact on chaplaincies in the Gulf dependent on regular friends. collections Although Bible Lands focuses on the Anglican Church As our Treasurer John Pringle reports in this issue the within the wider Christian community, all of whom are set Directors of JMECA have been able to make available within the tapestry of larger communities in the Middle a Special Fund specifically to support dioceses with the East, there should be no less prayer for all peoples and impact of the virus. Grants are being made to dioceses communities of the region at this particularly stressful and to assist with salaries and essential needs. In Egypt, for threatening time. We hope that the feature on Praying example, some have been used to help provide technology Around the Provinces will provide a focus for that wider to record videos and services for use in homes in place of prayer. church meetings and to support students with their fees. John Clark In Cyprus and the Gulf a grant has been used to support the clinic in Aden within war torn Yemen. STOP PRESS! We have just taken The Beirut explosion in August, so loud it could be heard delivery of Angela Murray’s The in Cyprus, has had a devastating effect in Lebanon. Anglican Diocese of Cyprus & the Gulf – JMECA has made a grant of £5000 used by the Diocese The Unfolding Story, as featured in the of Jerusalem to help families. Our online Beirut appeal Summer 2020 edition of Bible Lands. is still open. Special offer for JMECA supporters: Despite the pandemic, significant events in the life of the £20 (+ £5 p&p). churches have taken place. We report on some of them. Order now for Christmas – www.jmeca.org.uk Bishop was consecrated Co-Adjutor 3 Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East Jerusalem

The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, a diocese of the worldwide , extends over five countries, including Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine and Israel, within the Province of Jerusalem and the

Archbishop Suheil Dawani Middle East. There are 27 parishes that minister to the needs of their communities, centered on the Cathedral Church of St. George the Martyr, Syria Lebanon in Jerusalem. The diocese supports 35 institutions, which include hospitals, clinics, kindergartens and schools,

vocational training programmes, as Palestine well as institutions for the deaf, the & Israel disabled and the elderly, reaching out to Jordan interfaith neighbours in mutual respect and cooperation.

Embrace – committed to partnering with the church of the Middle East to bring lasting change to the most with our partners. We are in it for the long term and marginalised prioritise bringing about lasting change to those our In 1854 the Turkish partners work with. These priorities allow us together Missions Aid Society to build well-managed and resourced initiatives, which (TMAS) was founded empower our partners to bring the lasting change in London by a group they seek in the lives of the most marginalised and which included the great vulnerable in their communities. social justice reformer The Rev. Dr Mouneer Hanna Anis, Anglican Archbishop Lord Shaftesbury. The in Alexandria and former Bishop in Egypt, emphasised Society was one of many this when he described the ministry of BibleLands tangible responses to in terms of being centred around people’s lives. the suffering caused Throughout the Bible, the body of Christ is called to by armed conflict in look out for the most marginalised and vulnerable Crimea. Unlike many amongst us. Our work and the work of our partners other responses, this Society prioritised working is inspired by that invitation and seeks to bring care through existing local Christian-led organisations. for those most in need. Together we also pursue a In 1893, TMAS became the ‘Bible Lands Missions commitment to support the continued social witness Aid Society’. The year 1962 saw a name change and presence of Middle East Christians. to ‘Bible Lands Society’ commonly referred to as BibleLands. The charity moved out of London and in 2012 BibleLands became ‘Embrace the Middle East’ usually now known simply as ‘Embrace’. (NB There is no official connection with our JMECA magazine Bible Lands – editor.) Embrace currently works with partners in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel & Palestine and Egypt. Our way of working still mirrors the approach adopted in 1854. We put great value on building lasting relationships 4 Diocese of Jerusalem www.j-diocese.org Jerusalem

Together with our partners we seek to respond to this compounded by the massive explosion that ripped calling by enabling our partners to provide a long-term through the Port of Beirut on Tuesday 4th August. response to the needs around them whether it is: Some commentators are describing the explosion as one of the biggest non-nuclear explosions of all

Archbishop Suheil Dawani • providing shelter and a future for those displaced time. Entire neighbourhoods lie in ruins and the fabric from their homes as a result of conflict, of Beirut society yet again lies in tatters. In spite of • bringing education and social interaction to needing to come to terms with their own loss, trauma children who would otherwise be isolated and cut and their organisational repair needs, our partners off because of ongoing cultural stigmas around have sought to respond quickly to the needs of the disability, communities they serve in the wake of the explosion. • enabling access to life-saving medical treatment This response includes the youth and staff of the which would otherwise be out of reach, Tahaddi Education Centre in Beirut joining the teams • empowering young mums to bring up healthy of volunteers who poured out onto the streets of children, Beirut to clear away rubble and glass or distributing • training the next generation of leaders, carers and much needed food to the volunteers as they went teachers. about the massive clear up operation. It also included the LSESD family of organisations providing homes Lebanon: a country in crisis to some of those who had lost their homes and but a church responding with emergency food and water supplies to other families. hope in action The Embrace team although working remotely, quickly responded to unfolding events in Beirut. We reached out to all our partners in Lebanon to learn how they had been impacted and letting them know that we were standing with them. We then went to work to galvanise people and churches across the UK to support our efforts in raising funds to enable our partners in Lebanon to respond not just to the immediate need but over the long term. In the words of one our partners, cleaning up the rubble and broken glass is a metaphor for what also needs to happen across the political and economic systems of the country. The Lebanese have a long history of responding to Embrace has longstanding relationships with twelve crises with a resolute spirit of hope for a better future. Lebanese Christian organisations working with all Embrace and our supporters are also able from a the communities currently living in Lebanon. Partners distance to partner in the building of that future. include LSESD (Lebanese Society for Education A hope that combines anger with the way things are and Social Development), JCC (Joint Christian but the courage to see and effect change underpins Committee), Tahaddi and the Learning Centre for the all of the work of Embrace as it seeks to faithfully meet Deaf. Projects span primary healthcare, humanitarian its mission to partner with the church in the Middle assistance, education, livelihoods support and East to see lives and communities transformed by the specialist disability services. compassion of Christ. Bringing hope is at the heart of what Embrace and Please hold our work and our partners across the its partners seek to achieve in the communities in the region in your prayers. We are only able to partner Middle East where we work. St Augustine describes with the church in the Middle East as a result of the hope in the following terms: generous support of people here in the UK. If you Hope has two beautiful daughters; their names are able to consider supporting Embrace and our are Anger and Courage. Anger at the way things partners please visit www.embraceme.org for more are, and Courage to see that they do not remain information. as they are. Matt Adcock We witness this hope in the response of the church Photos: Shutterstock / Embrace in Lebanon to the massive need created by crisis upon crisis upon crisis in Lebanon and most recently 5 Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East Jerusalem Explosion in Beirut SN: How many people were hurt? JK: 200 people died in the port. Over 3,000 were Jameel Khader – training for ordination at injured. Hundreds of thousands became homeless. the Near East School of Theology (NEST)

Archbishop Suheil Dawani SN: Was anyone at NEST hurt? – was there. He is interviewed here by our editor Stephen Need. JK: No. They were all OK. SN: What happened at All Saints’, the Anglican Church SN: Jameel, thank you for agreeing in Beirut? to be interviewed by Bible Lands. JK: The Church Hall was damaged and the houses JK: You’re welcome. of some of the congregation were damaged. The SN: Tell us a little bit about yourself. church itself was not damaged. Several hospitals in the JK: I am Jameel Khader from area were damaged so it was chaos in the following Zababdeh in the northern West Bank near Jenin in days when there weren’t enough beds for people. Palestine where my parents live. I have two sisters Archbishop Suheil Dawani and Bishop Hosam Naoum and two brothers. I graduated from the Arab American were in touch with the priest at All Saints’, Rev Imad University in Jenin in 2015 and then went to work in a Zoorob. They sent messages immediately and started bank in Ramallah for a year. Then I offered myself for up a relief appeal. ordination in the Anglican Church and went to train at SN: What happened the next day? the Near Eastern School of Theology (NEST) in Beirut, JK: We started cleaning up in the NEST building and Lebanon. some of us went to some of the other local churches SN: Where were you on Tuesday 4th August? Can you to help them. It took two or three days to clean up. tell us what happened? While we were working, people came into the building JK: Yes. I was in the NEST building in Beirut at about to offer their help. You could see the face of Jesus in 5pm in the afternoon. We were preparing for a zoom their faces and the hands of Jesus in their hands as conference. We were locked down because of they reached out to help us. Covid-19 but I had just started a Bible Study on my lap SN: What has it been like for people living in Beirut? top, focusing on the leadership of Moses. Suddenly JK: The situation is very bad. We already had many there was an explosion which shook the building. The problems before the explosion. Now it’s even worse. explosion came from the port area in Beirut. First, we We have many political problems including violence, heard a smaller explosion and then a few minutes later inflation, food shortage and electricity cuts. People a huge explosion. The port is two miles away but it felt were suffering a great deal. Now the government has like the explosion was next door. At first, I thought it was resigned. The explosion has made everything even an assassination or a terrorist attack. In Lebanon there worse. is frequent violence and we are used to such things. I SN: You are now in Salt, Jordan. Do you plan to return closed my lap top and went out into the stairwell and to Beirut to finish your course? down to the ground floor. There were only about ten JK: I’m not sure now. We don’t know what will happen people in the building but I saw someone on the way and my bishop will make the decision. Lebanon is down who had received some BBC news and told us unsafe and I may not be able to return. it was a chemical explosion in the port. SN: What are your feelings now about SN: Was there much damage to the what happened? NEST building? JK: It’s something that made me JK: The building shook and there was thankful to God for being alive and glass and aluminium everywhere. The I am determined to help people. In explosion had shattered windows and a situation like that it’s no good just blown doors off their hinges. I saw the staying in your room and praying or coffee shop, the dining room and the writing reports. It’s an opportunity to Library. They were all covered in dust do something for people and help them. You have to and glass. When I got down to the ground level, I tried show your Christianity in actions. to remain calm and make sure people were ok. I went out and fetched some manouche (Lebanese flatbread) SN: Jameel, thank you from Bible Lands for telling us and tried to calm people down. We still didn’t know your story. We pray for you and for NEST and for the what had happened. people of Beirut and Lebanon. SN: Were you frightened? Can you help Beirut? If so, see the JMECA JK: It was frightening but I tried to remain calm. webpage: https://www.jmeca.org.uk 6 Diocese of Jerusalem www.j-diocese.org Jerusalem Dean Hosam Naoum It was a very moving ceremony, with the province, the diocese, the wider church, and the Anglican-Lutheran consecrated bishop in origins of the Protestant presence in Jerusalem all symbolised. Also present at the service were Archbishop Suheil Dawani Jerusalem representatives of some of the other local Churches On Sunday afternoon 14th June this year, a live service in the Holy Land including the Roman Catholics, the of consecration was streamed from St. George’s Armenians, and the Greek Orthodox. Many of the Cathedral in Jerusalem. Nowhere near as full as it Anglican clergy also attended. would have been without lockdown, the cathedral, Dean Hosam is originally from Nazareth and trained nevertheless, had about seventy people gathered for for ordination at the college of the Transfiguration in the consecration of the dean of the cathedral, the Very Grahamstown, South Africa. He served curacies at St. Rev Hosam Naoum as bishop. As we reported in the Philip’s Nablus, the Church of the Good Shepherd, last issue Dean Hosam was duly elected as bishop by Rafidia and St. Matthew’s, Zababdeh. He became the Majma or synod of the Anglican-Episcopal Church Pastor of the Arabic-speaking congregation at St. and will now be assistant bishop in the diocese for the George’s Cathedral in 2005 and then dean in 2012. next year, shadowing Archbishop Suheil until Hosam He was the first indigenous dean of the cathedral. himself becomes bishop, and indeed archbishop Hosam has completed a Master’s degree and a D. which is now the title of the Anglican Bishop in Min at the Theological Seminary in Virginia, USA. He Jerusalem. has been widely involved in the church in Jerusalem, at St. George’s School and College and as Chair of the Jerusalem Heads of Churches. He is married to Raffa and they have three children: Wadia, Christa and Larice. Hosam will become Archbishop following Archbishop Suheil’s retirement next year. Sadly, the coronavirus has changed the lives of people everywhere and the Christians of the Middle East are in a very difficult situation indeed with lives lost, churches closed, funds withdrawn and the continuing In spite of limitations on attendance, it was an uplifting conflict. Since the consecration there has also been occasion with a spirit of joy and celebration very the tragedy of the Beirut explosion which has created apparent even on screen. Local Palestinian Anglicans more sadness and challenge for the people of that were in attendance and there were four bishops taking country including the Anglican and other Christians. part in the consecration: Archbishop Suheil Dawani All this, in addition to the challenges of the Palestine- who also preached; Archbishop Michael Lewis of the Israel conflict presents Bishop Hosam and everyone in Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf, and Primate of the the diocese and province with an enormous challenge Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East, Bishop in the years to come. Peter Eaton of the Diocese of South Florida, USA and From Bible Lands we send our heartiest congratulations the local Lutheran Bishop in Jordan and the Holy Land, to Bishop Hosam and wish him and his family all the Bishop Sani Ibrahim Azar. Several hundred people very best for the future, and the assurance of our joined by Zoom. prayers and support.

7 Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East Jerusalem News from St George’s College

Archbishop Suheil Dawani Dean Richard Sewell writes…

The COVID-19 pandemic hit Israel and Palestine hard immediately. The Israeli government and Palestinian Authority both acted quickly to impose restrictions on movements and social interactions. As a result, infections and deaths were few. But a few months later restrictions were lifted quickly with everyone yearning for a return to normality and a heavy price has been and have closed again during the second surge. paid because this led to a second surge being far Perhaps all of this makes us look to our faith even worse than the first. more than in normal times. For me, Jerusalem, its holy places and its natural beauty has been a continuing The early actions of the government had an immediate source of inspiration. Thousands of years back the and devastating impact on the College as it did Psalmists were inspired by the holy city too: on everyone in the pilgrim and tourist business. International travel dried up almost overnight. At the “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, College we quickly arranged the safe departure of the which cannot be moved, but abides forever. pilgrims who were with us when COVID-19 restrictions As the mountains surround Jerusalem so the began, and we have not received anyone since then. Lord surrounds his people from this time and Sadly, we have had to cancel all our pilgrimages at forevermore.” (Psalm 125:1-2) least until the end of 2020. This remains true of the Everything is quiet here: all the international staff Holy City today, but without (except the Dean and his wife, JulieAnn) have left the hustle and bustle of either for a break or permanently. We still have a pilgrims from all over the skeleton local staff keeping the College in good order world, something vital is and the rest are on the government scheme which is missing. The city is not in place to support people in businesses affected by deserted because many COVID-19. We are fortunate to have some reserves people actually live here. to see us through the financial crisis in the short run. However, it is diminished by We are also indebted to people who have made the absence of those who donations to support the College during this very travel to Jerusalem because challenging time. of its spiritual significance whether they are Christians, Jews or Muslims. Whilst locals may be relieved to get about the city more easily, the city misses the pilgrims and not just for their dollars! When we face challenges, we need to draw more deeply on our faith just as we find in the Psalms. By re-iterating our faith in the teeth of the struggle we can find the reassurance of which we might have lost sight: “The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; he is their refuge in time of trouble. The Lord helps them and rescues them.” (Psalm 37:39-40a) Faith does not necessarily make our problems or pain As in so many other countries, in Israel and the West simply disappear, but it can give us strength to endure Bank, the health crisis has also become an economic or perhaps to find a route out of it. This is where the and a political crisis. Everyone is battling on multiple College finds itself right now. With the support of our fronts to find a way to prevent a disaster. Spiritually it international friends and in the grace of God, we are has been particularly challenging that the holy sites holding on. – the Holy Sepulchre, the Church of the Nativity and many others, were closed for Holy Week and Easter Richard Sewell 8

Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf www.cypgulf.org Cyprus and the Gulf Cyprus

Bishop Michael Lewis explains that the Diocese of Cyprus & the Gulf covers Oman, the Yemen, the seven United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq and the whole of Cyprus. “In every part of the diocese, except in Cyprus and Iraq, the congregations are largely expatriate, made up of Christians from Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines and the African continent. Many do not come from an Anglican background but find a welcome church

Archbishop Michael Lewis home in our Anglican congregations. Through some intricate and special relationships, the Diocese is often responsible for churches and congregations which are not Anglican, Iraq some of which are still working out their Cyprus Bahrain

relationships to the Bishop and Synod. Qatar Worship is largely in English but in some Kuwait locations we have liturgy in Arabic, Syriac- Aramaic, Tamil and Urdu. The leadership United in Iran has a particular ministry to the Arab Emirates Urdu-speaking congregations within our Oman diocese.” Yemen

Safe migration in the Gulf A report from Joel Kelling – Provincial Administrator and Anglican Alliance The Anglican Church, and particularly the Archdeaconry Regional Facilitator for the Middle East. of the Gulf, has been engaged in work to support migrant workers for some time now. It should be The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic continues noted that the majority of the congregations in the to affect and shape the way we all live. There have Gulf are made up of migrants, from a wide range of been some positives – such as the enforced jubilee nationalities and work backgrounds, from Canada to for the earth, lockdowns and curfews provided , Nigeria to Bangladesh and from executives around the world; planes have been grounded and to domestic cleaners. St. Martin’s, Sharjah, for cars prevented from taking to the road. At the same example, has a Migrant Outreach Ministry, including time, this time of enforced isolation has exacerbated Telegu and Urdu language services meeting in Labour existing vulnerabilities and exposure to exploitation. In Camps, or collecting people from their overcrowded the Middle East, we have seen jobs lost, mental health privately rented accommodation in their mini-van. St. suffer and domestic violence increase. Thomas’ Al-Ain has been working with other Christian groups to provide essential items, including menstrual Some of the most vulnerable people at this time are products for female workers in the camps of Al-Ain, those who have moved within and into the region, adjacent to where the diocese hopes to eventually either displaced by conflict or persecution, or those build a new church building. economic migrants searching for opportunities to better provide for themselves and their families. In It has been my great privilege to visit these people Lebanon for example, the economic crisis has led to in their homes, to share in their lives and worship, many domestic workers losing their jobs. Following and to experience the great compassion the church the explosion at Beirut’s port on the 4th August, the has for those in spiritual and physical need. In plight of these migrants has become more severe, February of this year in Dubai, UAE, just prior to many sleeping on the streets outside their embassies the lockdowns enacted to combat the spread of looking for help to return home, and even more Covid-19, I helped to facilitate an Anglican Alliance vulnerable to exposure to Covid-19, cases of which Safe Migration consultation in collaboration with the have dramatically increased in the aftermath of the Mission to Seafarers. We gathered Anglicans from explosion. across the Gulf, Christians from some of the diverse 9 Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East Cyprus and the Gulf Cyprus

developed the ‘Just Good Work’ app, which has been launched in Uganda and Kenya (in partnership with the Anglican Church of Kenya). Currently available in English and Kiswahili it gives valuable information about the process of recruitment, what to expect and what your rights are before you apply for a job in the UAE, Saudi Arabia or Qatar. The app has contact numbers for support on arrival, along with other

Archbishop Michael Lewis in-country support, and can be a great advocacy and training tool for migrants and their families. denominations present in the United Arab Emirates, Hopefully, in partnership with churches of the Anglican as well as Anglican partners from East Africa, South Communion, the app will add Bahrain and Kuwait as and South-East Asia. destination countries soon, with additional departure During our time together we participated in Bible countries being worked on. Our role as the church Studies on the themes of accompanying, slavery, is to alert people to the existence of the app, so that and freedom. We visited a Labour Camp and a potential migrants are well placed to make informed Fishermen’s Village, listening to the stories of those choices. who had come in search of better opportunities for People are on the move across the world, and given themselves and their families, hearing about their the spread of the Anglican Communion, are often struggles, and praying with the many Christians in their moving from one Anglican Province to another. This number. We heard theological reflections to modern means that Anglican churches have the opportunity slavery, led by Bishop Alastair Redfern, Chair of the to work together to ensure those who are looking for Clewer Initiative (the ’s response work abroad are informed about the realities of the to Trafficking and Modern Slavery), as well as being situation and their rights, as well as to support those joined by Archbishop Michael Lewis and Bishop Julius who are struggling following migration, and assisting Wanyoike of the Kenyan Diocese of Thika. the victims of trafficking and modern slavery pastorally We worked together to look at how the church is and and restoratively. It is our failure to acknowledge the can respond, globally, locally and inter-regionally to the humanity of these migrants that helps perpetuate their challenges of exploitation and coercion of people on vulnerability to abuse. Our opportunity as a community the move, mapping the partnerships and assets that of faith is to work together to support our brothers we share as a part of the global Anglican Communion, and sisters in Christ as they travel around the globe. and the ecumenical presence of churches in the Gulf. This consultation was the second phase in what will hopefully be the continued development of Anglican responses to Safe Migration, Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery in the region. In February 2019, the Diocese of Jerusalem’s Women’s Ministry met for a two-day workshop on the issue (https:// anglicanalliance.org/safe-migration-workshop-held- by-the-womens-ministry-of-the-diocese-of-jerusalem- with-the-anglican-alliance/) and there are plans for workshop in Cyprus in 2021. This month, a report on the Safe Migration consultation has been published. As well as a report on the activities of the consultation itself, it is a resource for understanding what human trafficking and modern slavery are, with some theological reflections on the One of the key messages of the consultation was that issue and frameworks of how we can respond. Please we don’t seek to prevent migration or demonise it, feel free to read or download a free copy of the report either the desire to go in search of better opportunities here: https://anglicanalliance.org/safe-migration-into- for oneself and one’s family, or the countries of the-gulf/ departure and arrival. It was therefore particularly interesting to learn about the work of Fifty-Eight, Photos: Joel Kelling a technology-focused, faith-based NGO that has

10 Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf www.cypgulf.org Cyprus and the Gulf Cyprus News from Cyprus and the Gulf… • The Rev Paul-Gordon Chandler elected Bishop of Wyoming. The Rev.

Archbishop Michael Lewis Paul-Gordon Chandler was elected on September 19th to be the 10th bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Wyoming in the USA. Rev Chandler is currently the rector of the Anglican Church in Qatar in the Persian Gulf. He is also the founding president of Caravan, an international peace building non- profit organisation that uses the arts to build sustainable peace around the world and which has held several strategic interreligious art exhibitions throughout Wyoming. Earlier this year Rev Paul-Gordon was awarded the Hubert Walter Award for Reconciliation and Interfaith Cooperation for his distinct and exceptional contribution in using the arts for interreligious peacebuilding around the world. We pray for Rev Paul-Gordon, his wife Lynne and their family as they move to their new position.

• Appointments to two new roles in support of • Archbishop Michael is the Diocesan learning community have been pleased to announce the announced. The Reverend Kent Middleton, parish appointment of the Reverend priest of St Luke Ras Al Martin Phillips-Last as Khaimah, has accepted priest-in-charge of Christ the role of Chaplain to the Church Ayia Napa and St learning community. “This Mark Famagusta, from 1 is a valuable pastoral role,” September 2020. Churchwardens welcomed the said Archbishop Michael, appointment of Fr Martin, who has been serving in “accompanying those in Cyprus since 2017. Fr Martin is to be licensed at a the process of deepening date to be confirmed. Christian education and formation, particularly in and around key moments of discernment.” • Archbishop Michael has appointed the Reverend Canon Dr Paul Burt to be interim resident chaplain Dr Angel Afolabi, based in and parish priest of Abu Dhabi, based at St Bahrain, is to be Warden Andrew’s in the capital. Paul is a recent senior of Readers. Archbishop chaplain of the Mission to Seafarers in Dubai as Michael said, “It will be a well as the Mission’s regional director for the Gulf delight to have a serving and South Asia. He is an honorary canon of St Reader as Warden, Paul’s Cathedral in Nicosia. His interim ministry is especially one who expected to last for up to twelve months, guiding possesses such inspiring energy and drive.” the church while a permanent successor to Canon The Diocesan learning community consists of those Andy Thompson MBE is sought. recommended for training for a licensed ministry and those currently in training, extending to include those two to three years post-Licensing/Ordination. Fr Kent and Dr Afolabi join the Ministry Team, alongside Director of Ministry Canon Dr John Holdsworth, Archdeacon Christopher Futcher, the Reverend Canon Harrison Chinnakumar, the Reverend Canon Dr Paul Burt and Dr Helen Perry.

11 Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East Cyprus and the Gulf Cyprus

Andy and his wife the Reverend Navina Thompson are moving on this summer to the next stage in their ministries. Please pray for Paul and Miriam Burt, for Andy and for the protection of staff and patients now in place,

Archbishop Michael Lewis Navina Thompson, staff have also been educating patients about and for the people of procedures essential to limiting the spread of the St Andrew Abu Dhabi and St Thomas Al ‘Ain. virus.

• Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth • Archbishop Michael and the Churchwardens are II has conferred the honour delighted to announce the of an MBE – making him appointment of the Rev a Member of the Most Ian Nicholson as Parish Excellent Order of the British Priest at St. Barnabas’, Empire – on Canon Faiz Limassol and St. Lazarus’, Jerjes, parish priest of St Pissouri and Diocesan George Baghdad and well- Discipleship Advisor. Fr. known public figure in Iraq. The citation makes Ian, originally ordained in reference to his “services to the Anglican, Christian, New Zealand, is currently a non-stipendiary priest and local community in Baghdad”. Warmest in the Anglican Church of the Epiphany in Doha, congratulations from the rest of the Diocese of Qatar. He and his wife, Carol, will be moving to Cyprus and the Gulf to Canon Faiz, his family, and Cyprus towards the end of October. all who worship at St George’s. • The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, 14th • The Reverend Charlotte Lloyd-Evans, of St Thomas September, was kept at St George’s Baghdad. Al ‘Ain within the parish of St. Andrew, Abu Dhabi in Despite tight travel restrictions some of the faithful the United Arab Emirates, has moved to the UK to were able to gather and remember the Cross of be Priest in Charge of All Saints’ Swanscombe and Christ. The feast traditionally recalls not only the St Mary Greenhithe in the Diocese of Rochester. crucifixion but also the finding of the remains of Please pray for Charlotte, Gareth, and their family, Calvary by the Empress St Helena in about the year for the people of her new parishes as well as Bishop 328. James of Rochester, and for all at St Thomas Al ‘Ain and St Andrew Abu Dhabi.

• The annual meeting of the Friends of the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf took place this year by • The Ras Morbat clinic in Aden is back in operation, Zoom on Monday August 3rd and was hosted by after a mandatory closure due to the COVID-19 All Hallows by the Tower, London. outbreak. The challenge of securing supplies of PPE for patients and staff had been a major concern, with prices rocketing more than 1,000% Congratulations to the Rev Canon Tim Biles, since the health crisis began. But thanks to a grant the previous editor of Bible Lands, who has from Episcopal Relief and Development, clinic received an MBE in the most recent supervisor Mansour Yousuf Khan has been able to Queen’s Birthday Honours list. purchase PPE stock sufficient to cover the clinic’s Well done, Tim! needs for some time. With strict safety protocols 12 Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf www.cypgulf.org Cyprus and the Gulf Cyprus From Limassol to Leominster comprises 3 modules (30 units), for individual study or group use, looking at classic sources, contemporary Andrew Mayes reflects on his issues and the interplay between spirituality and time in Cyprus mission. It is challenging to be a parish priest I was also able during this period to complete at a time of great transition and Gateways to the Divine: transformative pathways of upheaval, but rewarding too. I have prayer from Jerusalem which takes the reader through recently completed two years as Jerusalem’s gateways to encounter people practising, Archbishop Michael Lewis priest at Limassol, and even before COVID, we were for example, Sufi, Kabbalah, and other expressions experiencing subtle but significant changes. Due to of spirituality hidden away in the holy city. Archbishop Brexit, expats who had come to retire to Cyprus were Michael writes: “This is a useful and educative returning to the UK – we witnessed quite an exodus resource for anyone seeking a greater appreciation in 2019 – and they are not being replaced. of the diversity of religious experience today. This excellent and unusual book brings together historic But at the same time, more and more people from resources and contemporary unheard voices in the different nationalities wanting to worship in English search for authentic spirituality. In today’s polarized came to St Barnabas’ Church – Chinese, Nigerian, and divided world, this resource breaks barriers and Sri Lankan and even Iranian Muslim refugees, two literally opens up gateways of fresh encounter and of whom received baptism after a long period of understanding. It calls us to attentive listening to the exploration into the Christian faith. St Barnabas Other.” Limassol has had a tradition of being open- hearted and inclusive, and as we shifted gear in the Regular teaching visits to St George’s College demography of the congregation, becoming less enabled me to complete the 30 interviews with Old British and much more international, there were great City Jerusalemites, including those who live on the opportunities to listen and learn from each other, as Via Dolorosa, and Dean Richard Sewell kindly writes: well as needing the grace to make room for the ‘Other’, “This profound book takes the reader deep into the now our brother – and sister. centre and the soul of the holy city of Jerusalem. It goes far beneath the surface of things and will enrich During this period, I have served as Spirituality Adviser all those who delve into the riches. We are drawn into to the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf. How can fresh encounters with diverse spiritual traditions which one support such a vast area in the development will help building interfaith relationships, whatever our of spirituality? In addition to leading quiet days and context.” It will be published by Wipf and Stock this retreats in different parts of the Diocese, my approach autumn… and may be reviewed in Bible Lands. So, was to resource parishes where possible: I wrote the watch this space! Now newly retired to Leominster, Lent 2019 course Go in Peace: Eucharist and Mission Herefordshire, I look forward to supporting JMECA and other materials for spiritual development which and to seeing how my spirituality are still available on the website https://cypgulf.org/ work – shaped so powerfully by the resources/. Forging spiritual friendships is a tried- Province of Jerusalem and the Middle and-tested strategy for developing informal patterns East – evolves and develops. of spiritual direction/ prayer support within local congregations, while Exploring Christian Spirituality Canon Dr Andrew Mayes

From both provinces and all of us at JMECA… Congratulations to John Clark who has been awarded the Cross of St. Augustine John Clark, Chair of the Jerusalem and East Mission Trust standing committee for the Jerusalem and Middle East Church Association (JMECA), has been awarded the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Cross of St Augustine for services to the Anglican Communion. Mr Clark was among thirty- two Lambeth Awards presented by the Archbishop of Canterbury on Tuesday 30th June. The cross is given: ‘for an outstanding and selfless contribution to the life and witness of churches of the Anglican Communion, especially in the Middle East and specifically Iran, over 50 years’. Congratulations John and many thanks for your dedicated service!

13 Diocese of Iran Iran

The situation for Christians of all denominations The plaque which once bore the title of the Bishop of

Vacant in Iran has not changed since the summer issue Iran has been replaced with that of the foundation. Its of Bible Lands. Church buildings are closed and logo is there for all to see. congregations unable to meet because of the pandemic. Communications with the three deacons is limited. Visits to Iran are not possible. Archbishop Michael Lewis, in the absence of a diocesan bishop, maintains a watching brief on the church and hopes to visit as soon as it is possible and safe. Iran has been deeply affected by the virus with latest reports saying that it is undergoing a third wave with On the left, the logo of the Mostazafan Foundation many deaths. The official figure of about 30,000 is which has replaced the ‘Bishop’s House’ sign widely considered an underestimate (in the last Bible on the right. Lands we reported 4,869). Bishop Dehqani-Tafti left his homeland on 2nd Forty years ago this Christmas, Terry Waite visited November, 1979, just four days before the confiscation seven members of the diocese who were in Evin of his home, and a week after surviving an assassination prison following their arrest in August 1979. They attempt. Now, 41 years after the first attack on the included, Iraj Muttahedeh, who was to succeed Bishop’s House, its gradual expropriation is finally Bishop Dehqani-Tafti and who now lives in Britain, complete. three British missionaries and three other Iranians. They were eventually freed in February 1980. The only parts of the compound that still belong to the Anglican Church are a few apartments and a church There has been one other development reported (St Luke’s) with a very small congregation, which has by the human rights organisation Article 18 www. not been able to meet since March because of the articleeighteen.com – from which the excerpts below Coronavirus pandemic. have been taken. Reacting to the news, the bishop’s daughter Guli, who The Bishop’s House in Isfahan is now Bishop of Loughborough, said: has become a Centre for the I had a very happy childhood in the Bishop’s House which was my home and where I spent my formative Foundation for the Oppressed. years. I have countless memories of so many people The Bishop’s House in Isfahan – a city once the seat who passed through the doors – colleagues of my of the Anglican Church in Iran – was confiscated by father, friends and many, many guests. My parents an Islamic Revolutionary Court judge on 6 November, were very hospitable. 1979, nine months after the revolution that brought When we left and the house was confiscated, it still Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to power at the head of a included all our belongings – other than those we had new Islamic Republic. In all the years since, the house taken in one suitcase each. In the last few months, has stood empty and unused. Until now. it was the scene of unhappy events such as a raid Over the past two years, the Mostazafan Foundation, and the attack on my father’s life. The house, which an organisation directly ruled by the Supreme Leader belonged to the church, was confiscated and the and which works to support the poor – “mostazafan” injustice of that still stings. literally translates as “oppressed” – has restored and However, after 41 years of being vacant, I hope it now reopened the bishop’s house as an office to will now at least be put to good use and that it will manage its many other properties. (It should be noted truly be used as a place from which those who are that the Mostazafan Foundation is one of the richest dispossessed and poor may be helped. organisations in the country, with an estimated value of over $3 billion dollars.) John Clark

FINANCE MATTERS – A MESSAGE FROM JMECA Mindful of the great difficulties the pandemic is causing to our Dioceses, the Directors of JEMT have made available a special Fund of £400,000. This can be used for a variety of purposes and may be requested over the 2020 – 2022 period. It is in addition to the regular grants made annually.

14 ( Province of Alexandria Province of Alexandria

From its beginning in 1839, the Diocese of Egypt was committed to serve others as Jesus did. The new Episcopal Anglican province of which the diocese of Egypt is now a part, continues this commitment to serving all people holistically regardless of their religion or social status. Numerically, we continue to grow and in this strategic part of the world we have a great opportunity and responsibility to be ambassadors of our Lord Jesus, demonstrating in ‘Word and Deed’ what our faith means to us. The province supports numerous institutions including

Archbishop Mouneer Hanna Anis hospitals, clinics, nurseries, schools, a theological Tunisia seminary, micro-enterprise ventures, vocational training programmes, as well as institutions for the deaf and the disabled. The five goals of the province are: to reach the Algeria Libya Egypt unreached with the Gospel of Christ; to grow Christ’s church by making disciples and Eritrea equipping leaders; to serve our neighbours; to work for unity among all Christians; and Djibouti to dialogue with other faith communities. Ethiopia Gambella Support form the Jerusalem and the Middle East Church Association (JMECA) to the

province will be directed to helping with mission Somalia work, ordination training and medical outreach.

The new Episcopal Anglican Province of Alexandria consists of the four dioceses: Egypt, Gambella (in and clergy and wives’ conferences. There has been Ethiopia) North Africa and the Horn of Africa. We have youth work and help for the elderly, as well as arts, included their shields below. The province continues musical, cultural and educational activities of all sorts. the work of the previous Diocese of Egypt Help for the marginalized and the needy in through its four new dioceses. There is a all walks of life have been the focus. Some great deal of work going on as is evidenced of this work has been able to continue on through the support of numerous projects. line during the pandemic. During the Covid-19 pandemic there has Recent projects include: further work on an been support for local people in terms outpatients facility at the Menouf Hospital; a of food, grants, masks, PPE supplies, building extension at the Menouf Episcopal educational programmes, weekly services, School; the Minya Farm project; a new and regular prayers. Community Development Centre at Minya; In the last year, there have been conferences and a building extension at the Harpur focusing on clergy and lay training, retreats, Memorial Hospital in Sadat City.

15 Province of Alexandria Province of Alexandria Archbishop Mouneer writes… 3. Celebration for the successful My dear friends, students from our churches and Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, schools I would like to thank you so much for your prayers and On Saturday 12th, support of the different dioceses of the province. Your our partnership prayers for us mean a lot and we feel it. I would like office and the Media to share with you some of our news: Centre arranged a celebration for

Archbishop Mouneer Hanna Anis our students who 1. Back to church succeed in the different grades in their schools. It was From the beginning of August, all our churches wonderful for our students from the school for the deaf resumed services after a period of 4 months’ to join. We were also joined by the students from the lockdown. It was wonderful to the members of the Episcopal school in Menouf, Christians and Muslims. congregations to meet It was a great joy to see students from St. Raphael for again in the parishes. the Sudanese refugees participating as well. To our We give attention to surprise, part of the celebration was broadcasted by the physical distances, Egyptian Television. wearing masks and using hand sanitizers before 4. Alexandria School of communion. Theology (AST) and a new 2. Clergy, lay ministers and digital era wives day Bishop Samy Fawzy and the faculty of the Alexandria School of Theology were excited and thankful to add On Friday the 11th, we all met at All Saints’ Cathedral a new interactive digital board at AST. This will help Hall for a time of prayer, praise, and fellowship. This in giving online lectures in the different campuses of was the first time we met face to face since the AST, help in recording lockdown in March. It was very encouraging to hear lectures, and help in news from the different congregations as they shared many other ways. It how the hand of the Lord is moving within the diocese. is very encouraging We heard encouraging words from Bishop Samy and that this year about Archdeacon Emad. Lay minister Maged Shafeek 36 students applied led an uplifting time of worship. Some of the lyrics to study at AST. from a song we sang were: “we are coming close to your heart; we lift up our hearts to you.” This song touched our hearts as we prayed for the upcoming 5. AST lecturers training retreat court case on the 26th of September. Bishop Mouneer Bishop Samy organized a training retreat for all the shared about what is required from us as the new lecturers at AST. He encouraged the lecturers to make Province of Alexandria, encouraging us to ‘pour out their contributions while planning for the future of AST. ourselves in His service, develop new leaders, focus There is a wonderful family spirit among all the staff. on discipleship, and plant new churches’. This time was followed by a Eucharist at the cathedral. After the 6. Graduation ceremony of the Eucharist, we had a two-hour cruise on the . We Nuba Mountain Institute thank God for this very encouraging time. On the 15th of August, the church celebrated the graduation of ten Sudanese students of the Nuba Mountain Institute. The graduation ceremony was organized by the Director of the institute, Mrs. Bonita Dirk. Archdeacon Emad Basilios who teaches there also attended the ceremony.

16 Province of Alexandria Province of Alexandria 7. Starting “Together We Develop pandemic will come to an end in order to consecrate this new cathedral. We are also happy to share with Egypt” initiative in Alexandria you that there is a new spirit of cooperation among the clergy in Gambella. We very much appreciate the support of the friends of the church in Ethiopia (FACE) to the different ministries in Gambella. It is sad to say that one of the guards of Good Shepherd Peter Teny was killed by a crocodile during the current floods.

When the lockdown ended, we started again the

Archbishop Mouneer Hanna Anis 11. New locum in St. George, initiative of “Together We Develop Egypt.” This initiative is supported by the Episcopal Anglican Diocese of Tunis Egypt in collaboration with Misr El Kheir foundation. Rev Blair Carlson from the United States will be It encourages Christian and Muslim youth to work coming to serve in Tunisia from the beginning of together in small community development projects. October. Rev David Aziz will move to St Mark’s In his address, Bishop Samy said to the youth Pro-Cathedral in Alexandria after handing over the present, “love should be our motive, love in spite of responsibilities to Rev Blair. our differences.” He also explained the meaning of loving the neighbour. 12. Renovation of the parsonage of Holy Trinity, Algiers 8. Training workshop on We were delighted to hear from Canon Huw Thomas media and press that the renovation of the parsonage of Holy Trinity Our media center organized two training workshops is now complete and the building is ready to for new individuals (from our institutions and churches) accommodate the Italian school as well as church who are working with media. This was very fruitful and activities. We are very grateful to Canon Huw for his now we are getting news from around the diocese. hard work during this difficult time of the pandemic. Thank you again for your prayers and support. 9. Completing the third floor at the new outpatient clinic May the Lord bless you! +Mouneer of Harpur Memorial Hospital, The Most Rev. Dr. Mouneer Hanna Anis Menouf Archbishop of the Anglican Province of Alexandria We thank God for completing this phase of the outpatient clinic in Menouf. We are grateful to Dr. Samir for his hard work in supervising this project. Further news items from We are also grateful for all our friends who financially the province: supported this project. • Bible Lands is sorry to report that Bishop Rajan Vincent Jacob, whose consecration as Bishop in 10. The Good Shepherd Gambella we reported last year, has had to resign Cathedral, Gambella, Ethiopia through ill health. Bishop Kuan (of the Horn of Africa) will cover Bishop Rajan’s duties. We keep We are happy to share with you that the building of Bishop Rajan and his family, and Bishop Kuan, this new Cathedral is coming up. We are grateful especially in our prayers at this time. for a generous grant of £24,000 (Pounds Sterling) • After many years of service at St. George’s Tunis, from Jerusalem and Middle East Church Association Rev Peter and Christine Knight left in 2019 and (St Mary’s Waqf) and a generous donation of US$ are now being replaced by Rev Peter and Helen 100,000 from Bishop Kuan Kim Seng. We pray that the Benge from New Zealand. • In Libya, Crimson Jeba, a lay elder and university professor, has been ordained. • The Diocese of North Africa is working hard in ministry and mission and is now extending its work into Mauritania and Chad.

17 Province of Alexandria Province of Alexandria

and their own traditions and intellectual culture Why Alexandria? influenced their thinking about Christ. In the first few The inauguration of the new Province of Alexandria centuries of Christianity Alexandria rose to significant has been confirmed by the international secretariat importance alongside Jerusalem, Rome, Antioch and of the Anglican Communion. The province is the and eventually became one of the five forty-first of the Anglican Communion and consists Patriarchates. of four dioceses as follows: Egypt, North Africa, the Earlier than that we know of several Christian Horn of Africa and Gambella. Bishop Mouneer Anis is theologians operating in Alexandria. From sometime archbishop of the new province as well as continuing in the second century there was a catechetical ‘school’ as Bishop in Egypt until his retirement next year.

Archbishop Mouneer Hanna Anis or tradition of theological study and training operating But why Alexandria? The place is significant and in the city. A theologian called Pantaenus was loaded with history, not least Christian history. First attached to this. Clement of Alexandria also wrote his of all, what is Alexandria’s historical importance? work there. And Origen the controversial theologian This great city sits north-west of Cairo on the coast of of the third century operated in Alexandria. Origen’s Egypt and has been a major port in the Mediterranean theology and translations of the biblical texts became since its founding by Alexander the Great in 331 BC. tremendously influential in the following centuries. It became famous early on for a number of things, not Perhaps the best known of the theological debates in least the well-known lighthouse or ‘Pharos’, one of the Alexandria was between Arius and Athanasius in the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. fourth century. Arius spread the idea that the Logos Also, Alexandria soon became a centre of Hellenistic or the Son was not one with the Father but was a or Greek Judaism and the philosophy emanating from creature created by God before he created the world. this city spread around the Mediterranean. There was Athanasius disagreed saying that if the Logos were a famous library in Alexandria with more than a million not really God, he could not save humanity from its books - a symbol of learning across the known world sin. He wrote On the Incarnation of the Word setting and often compared with the libraries at Pergamon out his views. The controversy grew to enormous and Ephesus. Alexandria’s library burnt down in proportions so that when Constantine became first several stages in the early Christian period. Christian emperor, he called a council at Nicaea in Then there’s the tradition that the translation of the 325 to try to settle the matter. The Nicene Creed came Hebrew Bible into Greek was done in Alexandria. out of this gathering. Much of the theological debate Stemming from an account in the Letter of Aristeas and controversy had been in Alexandria. the tradition holds that seventy-two translators were In the next century another dispute blew up around invited from Jerusalem to Alexandria to translate the Nestorius in Constantinople. He claimed that the Virgin texts. They each went into separate chambers to carry Mary should not to be called the ‘Mother of God’ as out the task and when they came out the translations it gave the impression that God could be born. The were all the same! There were seventy-two translators response came from who claimed but the figure was rounded down to seventy and the that not to use this title of Mary denied Jesus’ divinity translation became known as the LXX (seventy in suggesting he was only a man. The controversy gave Roman numerals) or Septuagint (seventy). The New rise to the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD at which Cyril Testament writers knew and used this translation as and his supporters were triumphant. Finally, after the well as the Hebrew text. Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD when there had been At the time of Jesus of Nazareth there was a Jewish an attempt to balance the humanity and the divinity philosopher called Philo living in Alexandria. His in Christ’s natures, an Alexandrian called Dioscorus philosophy and theology influenced a great many led the response. in his day. He even used the Greek word Logos So why Alexandria? Many of the characters involved (Word) like the Fourth Gospel and his understanding in thrashing out classical Christian theology operated may have influenced early Christian writers. Philo’s there or came from there and it was a leading Christian influence spread far and wide. city in the early centuries. Although none of the seven But all this is background! Because Alexandria ecumenical councils was held there, Alexandria was an important city in Egypt in the pre-Christian played a key role in the theology which emerged period, it also became important in Christianity. from them. Tradition has it that St. Mark took the gospel to It is, therefore, wholly appropriate that a modern Alexandria where he died. His remains were eventually province in Egypt and the surrounding countries transferred to Venice. The first Christians were Jews should be named after Alexandria. 18 Book Reviews 19 Paul Condor Stephen Need in Turkish affairs. He was affairs. He was in Turkish in 1911. elected MP for Hull under He held various posts Kitchener. Balfour and Lord as pro- Whilst never being E. he held Lawrence, and T. Bell Arab as Gertrude until changing his views pro-Zionist sympathies his death. He was in fact in 1918 shortly before revolt, Arab the of flag the designing for responsible white can still whose colours of green, red, black and be seen in Middle Eastern flags today. of a Yorkshire At home he pursued the lifestyle the bench and Grandee, breeding horses, sitting on attaining ultimately fighting in the second Boer War, He had the rank of Lt. Colonel in the Green Howards. of 3 and later onbecome a Roman Catholic at the age Edith married a member of the same denomination, and enjoyed Gorst, with whom he had six children parents. His marital bliss so different from his own and humour, letters are full of warmth, affection and and cartographer. a cartoonist talents as reveal his He was also a brilliant mimic. Smith and Hilaire Belloc, His friends included F.E. his work for and Gladstone wrote of him concerning whole of his all the people of the Middle East, ‘The welfare of the time was devoted to promoting the did not enjoy and he, however, Gertrude Bell people.’ so harmonious a relationship (pp. 145 and 150). The final third of the book is devoted to the Sykes-Picot Agreement and shows how Sykes’ views changed as he witnessed the growing tension between Arab and Field Marshall Sir Henry Wilson, the Chief of the Jew. wrote of Sykes, ‘He is a good fellow Imperial Staff, but cracked and his blessed Sykes-Picot Agreement must be torn up somehow’. (London: Constable, 2017)

describes this book as ‘mouth-watering’ and it’s a fair comment. Times New York

Book Notice: Bethlehem. Biography of a Town Town of a Biography Bethlehem. Book Notice: Nicholas Blincoe The It begins with a Christmas pudding the author took to his wife’s parents’ house in It begins with a Christmas pudding the author took to his wife’s parents’ pudding the in fruits the of many of lead the Following Christmas. one Bethlehem region into the author takes the reader through the natural terrain of the Bethlehem million twenty-three about Rift Valley the of the parting Noting people. its history and and its years ago, he opens up the history of the region with his eye on Bethlehem A lovely book! people, working his way through its many rich layers of history.

Empire, Conflict and the Sykes-Picot Agreement. Agreement. Conflict the Sykes-Picot and Empire, Simon Sykes Christopher 2016 London: Collins, The Man Who Created the Middle East. A Story of East. the Middle Created Who The Man The Sykes-Picot Agreement of 1916 has been viewedbeen has 1916 of Agreement Sykes-Picot The opprobrium since its inception. Itwith almost universal between the United Kingdom and was a secret treaty Italy, and Empire Russian the assent from with France, Empire into their Ottoman Turkish which carved up the of influence. In effect it meantmutually agreed spheres known is what for responsible became France that and Iraq. Britain for Palestine as Syria and Lebanon, by offering a single independent The hope was that the Ottoman unified Arab state their support against Balfour the of advent The secured. be would Caliphate was a key negotiator in in which Sykes Declaration, Jewish people1917 promising a national home for the led to the Arabs feeling betrayed so that in Palestine, this day. problems resulted that are with us to have been But how could issues of such significance of whom so littleentrusted to diplomats and politicians the question on is known? Who was Sykes? This is Based on 463 which this book sheds much new light. and positive insight a vivid wife we gain letters to his of Spanish ‘flu in into the short life (he died in Paris this interesting1919 at the age of 40) of the subject of his grandson. and entertaining biography written by Benvenuto Mark Sykes or Mark as he was Sir Tatton a wealthy and usually known, was born in 1879 to had who Tatton called also landowner eccentric a girl somewhat married Jessie Cavendish-Bentinck, younger than himself (by 30 years) because he realised the need for an heir to his vast estate at It was not a happy Sledmere in North Yorkshire. marriage so it is unsurprising that young Mark did not enjoy a happy childhood. His father did, however, take Mark travelling extensively in the Middle East, especially through the Ottoman Empire which aroused to write The Caliph’s Lasthim his interest and inspired Empire. Heritage. A Short History of the Turkish an experthimself made he Pursuingcareer, political a

Book Reviews

The Other Side of the Wall. A Palestinian Christian Narrative of Lament and Hope. Munther Isaac

Illinois: Inter-varsity Press, 2020

This book is primarily the record of a personal – all with the backing of a journey seeking answers to the struggles, pain and politically orientated Christian . questioning of one Palestinian, Rev Dr Munther Isaac, For Palestinians the Holy Land is their homeland, the on behalf of the Palestinian people and particularly ‘land of our ancestors’ (p.72), says Isaac. He states of his sisters and brothers in Christ who live in the with confidence that the land does not belong to land they call their home. The book is a deeply any people, nation, ethnicity or religion. It belongs moving invitation to step into the shoes of countless to God. The land he says, ‘is not a free gift with no Palestinians, both those living in Palestine and in the strings attached’ (p.79). Promises to Abraham, Old diaspora. It seeks to bring a better understanding of Testament prophecies and the negative connotations their experiences throughout history, particularly the of trying to confine academic thinking into different last seventy years, and their 2000-year-old Christian theological boxes (eg incorporation theology, faith. The book is primarily directed at American replacement theology, covenant theology etc) are all evangelicals but is a powerful message to Christians carefully analysed. He concludes with a strong appeal of all theological persuasions worldwide. to all Christians to accept the centrality of Christ. But this is no autobiographical emotional lament or The book practically and theologically then focuses on complaint from a victim of injustice and oppression, the Parable of the Good Samaritan and the Beatitudes. although his feelings, his pain and his ‘heart response’ Discussion, Isaac says, ‘needs to take place within shout eloquently through the pages of the book. the framework of ethics and morality, rather than that Isaac writes with clarity and academic theological of eschatology or prophecy interpretation’ (p.100). integrity with a well-researched approach to some of Isaac says that, ‘the goal in itself is not ending the the vital issues impinging on the Palestinian situation, occupation but rather reconciliation’ (p.142). This is focussing his attention primarily on the evangelical the primary expression of Jesus’ teaching to ‘love my church in the USA and its politicised Christian Zionism. neighbour’. He admits it is a difficult commandment The first part of the book gives the reader an invitation to accept and understand within the context of life in to look, to hear and to feel what it is like for a Palestinian the West Bank but resisting the occupation must be to live on ‘the other side of the wall’. ‘Daddy, why did within the framework of love, not revenge. Similarly they stop us yet allow the other car to pass?’ (p.19) love for Muslims, as well as Jews, must be the lifestyle - asked Isaac’s seven-year-old son when the family that breaks down division and suspicion. Following were sent back at the checkpoint on the way to and obeying the revolutionary teaching of Jesus so Jerusalem. But there are deeper questions of identity, eloquently expressed in the Sermon on the Mount of nationality and injustice which are a challenge to is paramount. Isaac seeks to encourage us to look Palestinians. A whole chapter deals with the questions constantly through the lens of Christ’s mandate to of why Palestinians are ignored, silenced, discredited be peacemakers and agents of God’s kingdom of and dehumanized. This section concludes with the justice and love. biblical story of the Canaanite woman (Matthew 15) This book laments, it grieves; these feelings come and how it reminds us that God is a God of justice, through strongly but these are, says Isaac, ‘the first ‘who does not discriminate based on gender, religion, steps toward change’ (p.193), towards the realisation race, class, or nationality’ but, ‘is in solidarity with the of hope. He quotes a colleague and friend, Yohanna ones “on the other side of the wall”’ (p.46). Katanacho who at a recent conference at Bethlehem Isaac makes it clear that Christian Zionism, which feels Bible College shared a powerful and imaginative very much at home within the American theological dream (pp.200-201). I remember listening to this context, does not seem to be concerned about justice. lecture when this dream was shared and being moved He also argues that it would appear that international to tears of hopeful anticipation for my Palestinian law is rendered irrelevant and, ‘is trumped by another friends. This book gives further impetus to make higher authority: Christian Zionism!’ (p.54). He Palestinian dreams become a reality. It is a ‘must read’ brings the situation in the land up to date discussing for anyone who desires to see peace, reconciliation proposals for annexation, the US Embassy being and justice in the Holy Land, a place where established in Jerusalem, the spread of settlements, and Palestinians can live together in harmony and the continuing Nakba and particularly the tragedy of security and where walls that divide can become Gaza. He gives an itemised history of the way Israel history. has ignored international law and UN resolutions John Angle 20 Book Reviews 21 Stephen Need

territories. Beginning territories. Beginning visit in Galilee, you will other places on the and Tabor, Sepphoris, Nazareth, and Megiddo. Then, the major way to Mount Carmel with Jesus’ ministry around the Seaplaces associated the Golan Heights and you’re at of Galilee. Up into and And there are Old Testament Caesarea Philippi. and Nimrod. Travelling Dan Hazor, Crusader sites too: Samaria, Shechem, and south through Beth-shean, key Jericho, you reach Jerusalem encountering Mount, Temple locations such as the City of David, the with Jesus on Mount Zion and the places associated the Mount of Olives. the of Church the surely is Christians for climax The and Tomb Holy Sepulchre (along with the Garden Emmaus (there Bethlehem). But there is still more: or Jaffa and Joppa are four), then Lodd or Lydda, of Herod the Caesarea Maritima with all the glory Qumran brings Great’s port. The visit to Masada and A final the book to its geographical conclusion. political chapter lays out briefly some of the modern Jordan, to relating terminology and developments territories. Israel and the Palestinian narratives and Skilfully weaving together biblical periods, Miller historical data from many different alive come sagas biblical The teller. story good a is stories which and this is particularly true of the OT A good sense might be less familiar to readers. of the geography of the land over and the author provides occasional directions including road numbers. There are succinct histories of modern excavations for archaeological sites. There are also numerous colour photographs scattered throughout this book as well as black and white maps, and boxes of information, for example on on the Nabateans and their capital at Petra, in Jerusalem, and on the history of Hezekiah’s Tunnel the Druze people in the Golan Heights. The Stations of the Cross are also located on a map and an explanation given for each one. In all, I found this to be a delightful read, bringing to life the places mentioned and providing just enough information for a first visit for those who want to know biblical, historical and contemporary information. The waterproof cover is a good idea although I found the In any book a bit cumbersome. of the overall size case, I strongly recommend Miller’s Guide to anyone and old hands! going to the Holy Land – first-timers

Guide to Israel and Jordan. and to Israel Guide Max Miller 2020 Cascade, Eugene, Oregon: Discover the Holy Land. A Travel Travel A Land. Holy the Discover This informative and engaging travel guide to the engaging travel guide to the This informative and very useful companion for anyone Holy Land will be a In territories. Palestinian the and Israel Jordan, visiting beforehand and afterwards as fact, it will be as useful Not a guidebook in the itself. it will be on the journey word (it doesn’t give you national usual sense of the a nor sites), of times opening or restaurants holidays, give you anything liturgical),pilgrim manual (it doesn’t student’s textbook for a Holy Land it’s more a college will to have it with you en route module. However, about the Biblemean that you have much information as well as some and the land and their connections, situation useful material about the modern political in the Holy Land. at Emory Max Miller was Professor of Old Testament Museum University and archaeologist for the Fernbank USA.of Natural History in Atlanta, Georgia, He has annually forbeen taking students to Jordan and Israel in Essex during over forty years. Reading this book fairly well, I felt lockdown and knowing the Holy Land places with a I was being transported through the knows what well-informed scholar and guide. Miller of being he’s doing and I wished I’d had the privilege in one of his groups! we should think The author points out early on that the Palestinian of the biblical ‘Holy Land’ as Israel, boundaries are territories – and Jordan. The modern period. His first different from those in the biblical two chapters are extremely useful for orientation, introducing some of the terminology used by for example archaeologists for periods of history, such others and Age’ ‘Iron biblical the Age’, ‘Bronze as ‘Hellenistic’ and ‘Byzantine’. Miller also gives a basic overview of the ‘lay of the land’ pointing out five geographical areas, crossing from west to east (ii) Plain; Coastal Mediterranean the (i) follows: as Galilee and the central Hill Country; (iii) the Jordan and Highlands; the Transjordanian Basin; (iv) River (v) the Syria-Arabian Desert. This simple information visitors (and many who have been will help first-time before) to get oriented quickly to the overall terrain. and Jordan Amman, in begins element travel The goes to key places in that country including Jerash, Nebo and Madaba. It heads south through Machaerus Kerak beheaded), was Baptist the John (where with all and Shaubek to the ‘rose red city’ of Petra its mystique and romantic associations. After Wadi Rum and the memories of Lawrence of Arabia, Miller of the part main second The to Aqaba. readers takes book then moves over to Israel and the Palestinian

Praying round the Provinces The Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East, and the Province of Alexandra, home to the three Abrahamic faiths and the centre of the world’s political conflicts, ask your prayers for...

PROVINCE OF JERUSALEM AND THE MIDDLE EAST 1st The Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East. The President Bishop of the Province, the Most Rev Michael Lewis. THE DIOCESE OF JERUSALEM 2nd The Archbishop, the Most Rev Suheil Dawani and his wife Shafeeqa. For wisdom as he leads the church in Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon. The Rt Rev Hosam Naoum, Dean of St. George’s Cathedral and co-adjutor bishop and his wife Raffa and family. The administrative staff. 3rd The clergy serving the parishes and institutions in Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon and the congregations who keep the faith and sustain the churches in troubled times. 4th The hospitals and centres that tend the sick: the Diabetic Clinic Ramallah, St Luke’s Hospital Nablus, the Alhi Arab hospital Gaza, and the Penman Clinic, Zebabdeh. 5th The schools that prepare the next generation: St George’s Jerusalem, the International School Jerusalem, the Arab Episcopal School Ramallah, the Vocational Training Centre Ramallah, Christ’s School Nazareth, St John’s School Haifa, the Ahliyyah School for Girls, the Bishop’s Kindergarten and the Bishop’s School for Boys Amman, the Schneller Vocational Training Institute Amman, St Saviour’s School Zerqa, St John Baptist School for Integration of the Blind Irbid, and St George’s School Lod. 6th The centres of healing: the Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre, the Holy Land Institute for the Deaf Salt, the Jofeh Community Rehabilitation Centre Jordan Valley, the Father Andeweg Institute for the Deaf Beirut, St Luke’s Centre for the Mentally Disabled Beirut, the Home for the Elderly Amman, the Episcopal Home for Children Ramallah. 7th The guest houses that provide hospitality and refreshment for pilgrims and all visitors: St George’s Jerusalem, St Margaret’s Nazareth, St Andrew’s Ramallah, the Schneller Institute Amman and Christ Church Jerusalem. 8th Those who work for peace: the Peace and Reconciliation Movement, Kids4Peace, Sabeel and people from all sides who seek peace and pursue it. 9th St George’s College Jerusalem and its courses: the Dean, the Very Rev Richard Sewell and his wife Julieann, the Course Director, the Rev Mary June Nestler, the Chaplain, and their families. Almighty God, from whom all thoughts of truth and peace proceed, kindle, we pray, in the hearts of all your people the true love of peace. THE DIOCESE OF IRAN 10th All in leadership roles in the Church in Iran. 11th The political leadership of the nation. The wellbeing of all people in Iran. 12th The congregations of the Episcopal Church in Isfahan (its suburb Julfa), Tehran & Shiraz. The cities where congregations have worshipped in past years – Kerman, Yazd, Ahwaz. 13th All involved in ministry among Iranians through media, literature, witness and leadership training. 14th The Diaspora of Iranian Christians scattered in many nations. Guide with your pure and peaceable wisdom those who take counsel for the nations of the earth, that in tranquillity your kingdom may go forward, till the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love.

22 Praying round the Provinces Blessed Lord, who faced the time of trial have mercy on our failings and out of our weakness bring your strength.

THE DIOCESE OF CYPRUS AND THE GULF 15th The Bishop, Most Rev Michael Lewis and his wife Julia. Georgia Katzantonis and the diocesan administrative staff. 16th The Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral Nicosia, the Very Rev Jeremy Crocker and his wife Beth. The Dean of St, Christopher’s Cathedral Bahrain, the Very Rev Bill Schwartz and his wife Edith. 17th The Archdeacon in the Gulf, the Ven Bill Schwartz and his wife Edith, the Archdeacon in Cyprus the, the Ven Christopher Futcher and his wife Anne. 18th The clergy and people of Cyprus in Nicosia, Kyrenia, Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos and Ammochostos. The work of the Katafiyio Retreat House. 19th The clergy and people of the Gulf in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, Oman, Doha, Aden and the clinic at Ras Morbat, and the scattered congregations of the Arabian Peninsula who keep the faith privately. 20th The Church in Qatar and for Canon Paul-Gordon Chandler who leads the mission of the Epiphany Centre. The congregation of Baghdad led by Canon Faiz Jerjes. The people of Iraq, of all faiths, and all the Iraqi Christians who are sheltering in other lands. 21st The political leaders in Cyprus, Iraq and the Gulf States, that all may seek and create just and stable governments. 22nd The Friends of the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf. Almighty and everlasting God, creator and giver of all good gifts, mercifully hear our prayers and grant to this diocese all things needful for its welfare. PROVINCE OF ALEXANDRIA 23rd The Province of Alexandria. The President Bishop of the Province, the Most Rev Dr Mouneer Hanna Anis. 24th The Diocese of Egypt. The bishop, the Most Rev Dr Mouneer Hanna Anis and his wife Nancy and their family. The coadjutor bishop, the Rt Rev Samy Fawzy and his wife Madelaine and their family. All who work in and for the Diocese of Egypt. 25th The Diocese of North Africa. The bishop, the Rt Rev Samy Fawzy, his wife Madeline and their family. All who work in and for the Diocese of North Africa. 26th The Diocese of the Horn of Africa. The bishop the Rt Rev Kuan Kim Seng and his wife and family. All who work in and for the Diocese of the Horn of Africa. 27th The Diocese of Gambella in Ethiopia. The acting bishop, the Rt Rev Kuan Kim Seng and his wife and family. All who work in and for the Diocese of Gambella. 28th The Alexandrian School of Theology in Alexandria and Cairo. Its Principal the Rt Rev Samy Fawzy. All staff and students and their families. 29th The Friends of the Anglican Province of Alexandria and all friends of the dioceses. Strengthen the faithful, protect the children, comfort the sick, uplift the fallen and bring us all to be of one heart and one mind within the fellowship of your holy church.. *** 30th The Jerusalem and the Middle East Church Association. Its Chairman, the Rev Canon Anthony Ball, and the Chair of the Standing Committee, Mr John Clark. The staff in the office in Farnham, Mrs Shirley Eason and Mrs Shirley Atkins. All whose gifts, past and present, sustain it.

23 JERUSALEM & THE MIDDLE EAST ALEXANDRIA Archbishop Michael Lewis Archbishop Mouneer Hanna Anis 11

Jerusalem North Africa Archbishop Suheil Dawani Area Bishop Samy Fawzi 1. Palestine & Israel 14. Algeria 2. Lebanon 15. Tunisia 3. Syria 16. Libya 4. Jordan Egypt Cyprus and the Gulf Bishop Mouneer Hanna Anis Bishop Michael Lewis 17. Egypt 5. Cyprus 6. Iraq Horn of Africa 7. Kuwait Bishop Kwan Kim Seng 8. Bahrain 9. Qatar 18. Eritrea 10. United Arab Emirates 19. Ethiopia (Highlands) 11. Oman 20. Djibouti 12. Yemen 21. Somalia Iran Gambella (Red line indicates border) Vacant Vacant 13. Iran 22. Ethiopia (Lowlands)