by Elli Atchison, World Vision
There is a refuge where people gather in the town called Beit Jala. The Women’s Child Care Society (WCCS) has been serving the community for more than 70 years. It was originally established as a first-aid center for refugees coming into Bethlehem during the first Arab-Israeli War in 1948. But today the WCCS does much more.
The mission of the WCCS aims to “provide activities to empower women, children, and youth in all aspects of life.” This is accomplished in a variety of ways. First, as the name suggests, it is a loving place where working mothers entrust their small children. Second, it provides low-cost housing to the poor. Third, the WCCS hosts engaging summer camps that encourage youth to appreciate their rich culture. Finally, it trains and provides employment for women who specialize in the unique style of tahriri embroidery. Read more
by Elli Atchison, World Vision
Peter is special…. and it shows. This young man from Bethlehem has a twinkle in his eyes and a magnetic smile that draws a stranger in close. However, life has been challenging for him as Peter was born with hearing impairments that made learning difficult. This would ordinarily put him in a segment of Palestinian society that is marginalized and cast aside.
However, despite his inability to communicate with words, Peter is outgoing and makes friends easily. He is a talented artist and an accomplished olive wood carver. Peter thanks the Joy School for giving him the opportunity to learn and develop these skills. Read more
by Elli Atchison, World Vision
Happy New Year! I love the fresh start of a new calendar. It holds 365 opportunities to pursue self-improvement and life’s ambitions. There are many things I want to accomplish in 2015. Like many of you, my resolutions include goals for organization and a healthier lifestyle. I want to travel to new places and make some amazing memories with my family. However, my list has one item that might not be on yours. I plan to eat an elephant called peace.
Before you get the wrong idea, please give me the chance to explain. I happen to adore elephants. I have observed them on safari Zimbabwe, and marveled at the truly amazing creation of God that they are. I am not promoting poaching them in the wild. I am speaking of the old adage “The only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.” Of course this wisdom is not in the Bible and did not come from Solomon or Jesus. But, I think we can still apply it to the Holy Land in 2015. Read more
by Mae Elise Cannon, World Vision
World Vision recently completed the Winter 2014 Hope for the Holy Land Tour!
Visiting churches in Illinois, Washington, and Oregon, and in Canada from British Columbia to Manitoba, we’ve been blessed and encouraged by the church’s compassion and enduring desire to see peace and justice in the Holy Land.
We’re also encouraged by the many Christian voices in North American who are speaking out towards this end. These communities have welcomed us with open arms; we want to thank them, and continue to pray for these communities. Read more
