Israel Update

[Bishop Rinehart]

Dear Gulf Coast family,

Just a quick note to greet you from Israel. 

First I want to assure you that we are in no danger. Security is high, but
we walk the streets freely as one would any international city. The
Palestinians are extremely gracious.

We have been listening carefully to both Israelis and Palestinians. Both
seem desperate t make their case. The cycle of violence seems unending. The
Israeli blockade of Gaza has caused unprecedented suffering. Hamas rockets
terrorize Israelis. The current operations seems to only stir more hatred,
and provide more excuses to justify violence.

Yesterday we met with the Chief Rabbis, then the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs. Today we are at Augusta Victoria Lutheran Hospital on the Mount of
Olives. I am impressed at the Lutheran presence here. We have the only
Protestant Church in the Old City and the only cancer center in East
Jerusalem, thanks to Kaiser Wilhelm. A housing project and sports center are
in the works. 

LWF and the UN are presenting programs to help us fully understand the
situation here. Bishop Younan, himself a refugee, is a incredible person,
maintaining good relationships, yet speaking boldly against oppression.

I can speak more openly of what I'm seeing when I return. In the mean time I
thank you for your prayers and remember you daily in mine.

Yours in Christ,

Mike Rinehart, bishop
TX-LA Gulf Coast Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
12707 I-45 North Freeway, Suite 580
Houston, TX 77060-1239
281-873-5665
www.GulfCoastSynod.org

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