The ELCA works for peace with justice in Palestine and Israel through its initiative called Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel. We stand in “sumud” (steadfastness in Arabic) with our Palestinian partners, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL), and Augusta Victoria Hospital, through accompaniment, advocacy, and awareness-raising. Together, we work for a lasting peace there that will only come through justice, non-violence, equality for all and an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands and people. The ELCJHL embodies sumud in its education, social work, worship, and the promotion of women’s equality, non-violence, and the arts. Watch the Sumud Introductory Video.

Learn

Christian Zionism

Christian Zionism threatens and dehumanizes our Palestinian Lutheran partners and corrupts the gospel of justice and peace. Watch and find out how.

Accompany

First Palestinian Woman Pastor

Rev. Sally Azar in the ELCJHL is the first woman to be ordained in the Holy Land. Watch and learn more about her and the ELCJHL.

Raise Awareness

Churches for Middle East Peace promotes a comprehensive resolution to conflicts in the Middle East.



Meet Friends of SUMUD: Southwestern Texas Synod

If you’re interested, we are happy to offer a one-on-one conversation to explore your questions, hear your reflections, and discuss how SUMUD might resonate within your congregation. These conversations are a great way to build connections before any in-person visits with your congregation and can help us better understand how to help you and your congregation learn more about this ministry.

Please feel free to reply to this email to schedule a time that works for you or reach out to one of our SUMUD members 


Rev. Julie Brenton Rowe

Author of "Why Peace and Prayers are Not Enough"

Former Communications Director ELCJHL
Former Ecumenical Accompanier

Rev. Sharon Wiggins

Member Faith Lutheran, Austin
Interfaith Community for Palestinian Rights

Former Chair of SWT Chapter Peace Not Walls
Former Ecumenical Accompanier

Debbie El-Bathy

Member Gethsemane Lutheran, Austin
Interfaith Community for Palestinian Rights

Tammie Danielsen

Member Gethsemane, Austin
Former SWT Peace Not Walls Member
Churches for Middle Ease Peace Regional Coordinator
Former Ecumenical Accompanier