Your Friday Five: 07.25.25
Over the past year, people have been asking me for ways to support those suffering in Gaza, as well as those engaged in good work in other parts of Palestine. There are many worthy individuals and organizations in need of support (please share in the comments); however, here are five Palestine-related organizations that we, as a family, support financially.
One // United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) — While there are arguable systematic problems with UNRWA'S very existence as a way to support the original catastrophe of the Palestinian People, they are best situated to help. I have met with the organization during one of my delegations and have no problem finally supporting their aid work throughout Palestine. [DONATE]
Two // Seraj Library Project — This storytelling and community library project is amazing. I have been here multiple times and moved with each visit. With 13 libraries spread throughout Palestine, the energy, creativity, and resistance manifested are inspiring and worthy of support. [DONATE]
Three // Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center (Sabeel) — Sabeel is the organization through which I have led or participated in four delegations to Palestine in the past year. Delegations are just a small part of what they do. Sabeel is deeply connected to local Palestinian movements. They provide services to Palestinian communities, support Palestinian businesses and organizations, engage in thoughtful studies of liberation theology, and offer ongoing opportunities for Palestinian Christians to participate in ministry and service. [DONATE]
Four // Palestinian Justice Network of the Presbyterian Church (USA) (PJN) — Previously known as the Israel-Palestine Mission Network, I am so grateful for the organization and people involved who have been committed to Palestinian liberation for decades. Until the past two years, I never really appreciated the depth of their work and impact. I have apologized for this and am all-in with PJN. If you need educational resources, solidarity connections, support for delegation travel, or you yearn for a trusted space for collegiality and support, PJN is your community and is worthy of support. [Donate]
Five // There are so many GoFundMe campaigns out there, so please do not feel obligated, but if you would like to join us in supporting the Watfa Family, we know that every gesture makes a difference. We hear from them almost every day, and, like for most Gazans, the situation is heartbreaking and enraging. [Donate]
BONUS // Douban Dance Company — Okay, right now the only way to support Douban is to follow them on Instagram or if you ever get a chance to visit, purchase one of their amazing hand-embroidered sweatshirts. Still, I have included them here because I have gotten to know the director and want folks to connect to this youth program because there are some amazing projects in the planning stages. Be sure to scroll through their reels, as what they are doing is truly amazing. If you want to see what this looks like, here is a video of Hannah.
And with that, your Friday + Five of ways to support Palestine is complete.
Peace,
As a full-time itinerant speaker and writer, I rely on the generosity of friends, family, and strangers to support my work. Your financial gifts help me to engage in projects and actions that would not be possible if I were entirely tied to a congregation or organization. If you find what I share in the world meaningful, please consider becoming a paid subscriber.
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BONUS: From the Camera Roll
I am writing from my room at Massanetta Springs Conference Center where I am filling the Speakman Chair of Preaching at the 2025 Bible and Church Music Conference. It has been over 15 years since I last visited, and a great deal has changed. Not only have we, as a denomination, undergone significant theological and ecclesiastical shifts since that time, but the surrounding community has also undergone substantial growth. What has not changed is Massanetta's deep commitment to providing opportunities for young and old to struggle with and grow in faith. For many of us, camp and conference center ministry has played a significant role in our growth as humans and people of faith, so it was a joy to return and reconnect with all the goodness that is Massanetta.
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