2024 Resolutions
Resolution 2024-02: “Because We Care”
General Church Budget Implications: None
East Ohio Conference Implications: Yes
Whereas: Christians in the Holy Land have issued an urgent call to Christians, churches and ecumenical institutions “to engage in a process of study, reflection and confession concerning the historic and systemic deprivation of the rights of the Palestinian people, and the use of the Bible by many to justify and support this oppression.” (“Cry for Hope: A Call to Decisive Action”: www.cryforhope.org); and
Whereas: we cannot serve God faithfully while remaining silent about the oppression of the Palestinian people; and
Whereas: struggling for a future based on human rights, liberty, and justice for all people in the Holy Land is especially crucial now; and
Whereas: the justice movement United Methodists for Kairos Response (UMKR) was established in 2010 to answer the call of Palestinian Christians and offers resources, speakers, and other assistance for individuals and congregations seeking to learn about the Holy Land and become advocates for justice and peace;
Therefore, be it resolved: that each voting member of the conference is encouraged to bring this message to their home congregation; and
Be it further resolved: that each church in the East Ohio Conference is strongly encouraged to:
- engage in study and discussion of “Cry for Hope” and learn more about the Palestinian people and their struggle with UMKR educational materials at www.kairosresponse.org.
- oppose the equating of criticism of the Israeli government’s unjust actions with antisemitism.
- answer Palestinian Christians’ call to “come and see” the reality of their lives today in the Holy Land.
- locate a knowledgeable and available speaker, in consultation with UMKR justice advocates, and arrange for that person to speak to the congregation on this subject.
Submitted by: East Ohio Methodist Federation for Social Action, East Ohio Reconciling Ministries Network, and East Ohio Multicultural Ministries Board
