From The Desk of Deacon Judy

Hope

On the first Sunday of the Advent season, we light the candle of Hope. We hold on to hope at all times, but especially in times of struggle and strife.

In the midst of the chaos and uncertainty in the land of the Holy One, the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem shines the light of hope in its humanitarian ministries. I wanted to share with you this inspiring letter from Archbishop Hosam:

Dear St. James Family,

As we approach this Christmas season of renewal and hope, I invite you to reflect upon the profound differences we can make together for those facing unimaginable challenges here in the Holy Land. This sacred region, so central to our faith, is experiencing tremendous hardship. From the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, to the miseries of the refugee camps in Jordan, to the struggles of local communities in the West Bank, Syria and beyond—the people we serve continue to endure suffering that tests the limits of human endurance.

Yet amid this suffering, your unwavering support to American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem (AFEDJ) will bring healing and relief to those most in need. Your generosity sustains our congregations, schools, hospitals, and centers for children with disabilities across the region. They help us to offer care, education, and sanctuary to those who have lost so much.

I am deeply moved by the many stories of courage and determination I see in our communities every day—stories made possible by friends like you. One such story involves our Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. For despite the harrowing bombardments that have constantly surrounded the hospital, our intrepid staff have bravely persevered in their healing mission. Even now, Ahli’s team is providing critical medical care, showing that God’s love transcends all boundaries.

Yet this spirit of resilience echoes throughout all of our institutions—whether at the Princess Basma Centre in East Jerusalem, where children with disabilities find a more hopeful future, or at our St. Luke’s Center for Rehabilitation in Lebanon, where needy students and their families find comfort and hope amid the devastations of warfare. Our institutions likewise remain steadfast in their mission across Jordan and Syria, where millions of refugees seek safety from ongoing conflict. Together, they embody the love and compassion we are called to show, offering not just care, but a chance for dignity and a brighter future.

This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of Christ, who brought light into a dark world, I ask you to open your heart and join us in supporting this vital work. The needs are immense, but so too is the impact of your generosity. Every gift you make to AFEDJ sustains this sacred mission, helping us to respond to emergencies, provide essential services, and work for a future where justice and peace prevail. Your support truly makes a difference. Every donation reflects your commitment to standing with the people of the Holy Land and ensures that our lifelines of compassion, healing, and education continue to thrive.

Thank you for your generosity, your prayers, and your trust. May the light of Christ fill your heart this Christmas and throughout the coming New Year.

In Christ,

The Most Reverend Hosam E. Naoum

The Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem

Please consider making a donation directed to "where the need is greatest" today by scanning the QR code or visiting www.afedj.org/give/give-online for secure credit card payments. For mail donations, if using USPS, please make your check payable to AFEDJ and send it to PO Box 411814, Boston, MA 02241-1814. For FedEx or UPS, make your check payable to AFEDJ and mail it to 25 Old Kings Hwy N, Ste 13, Darien, CT 06820. AFEDJ is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (Tax ID: 59-6155008), and your gift is secure and tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Learn more at www.afedj.org.

Shalom/Salaam/God’s Peace,

Judy Q+