May 10-25, 2008
Itinerary: This 16-day trip will include time in Jordan and various areas in Israel/Palestine. It will include visits to holy and historical sites; briefings from many perspectives, such as Christian partners, peace groups, and representatives of the governments of Israel, Palestine and the U.S., academics and journalists; and meetings with agencies dealing with Iraqi refugees in Jordan. Most importantly, there will be exchanges with ordinary people in both Israel and Palestine to reframe this highly explosive situation as a double human tragedy.
The time in Jordan will focus on issues that effect the larger Middle East region and U.S. policy. This includes a clearer understanding of contemporary Islam, its internal tensions and relations with other faith communities from both Israel, Palestine and Iraq.
This will be a journey of personal faith leading participants through places of Christian beginnings and through the intractable realities of an Arab-Israeli struggle that has gone on for over 60 years. This is an experience for people who want to know more, experience more, and do more for peace than wring their hands in despair.
Leadership:
Stuart Taylor is pastor of St. Mark's Presbyterian Church in Tucson, AZ. He has worked with Witness for Peace in Nicaragua, and has been engaged with both Jewish and Palestinian communities in Tucson.
Andrea Leonard is a former Young Adult Volunteer for the PC(USA), now living in Atlanta.
Participants: Commissioners to the 2008 General Assembly, first time visitors to the region, and clergy are particularly encouraged to apply, but all are welcome! A maximum of eighteen participants can be accommodated.
Cost: Approximately $3500 all-inclusive (airfare, meals, lodging, transportation, and programming).
Registration Deadline: February 6, 2008 is the deadline for applications, with a $100 deposit to hold your spot. Participants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible! We would like half of the total trip cost on March 1 and the final payment by April 1.
Contact: Andrea Leonard, Pentecost Trip Logistics Coordinator: andrea.c.leonard [at] gmail [dot] com or (903) 744-6337.
For more information about this trip please visit
http://www.presbypeacefellowship.org/?p=126
