Last Saturday (January 24), Daryl Byler lead a 'Conversation on Peace for Palestine and Israel.' Daryl served for six years (2007-2013) as an Area Representative for Mennonite Central Committee in the Middle East. He related to MCC partners in Israel, Palestine, Iran, Iraq and Jordan.

Daryl talked about how bad theology can lead to bad, even horrific, outcomes. He spoke of the Church's history of antisemitism that lead to the Holocaust. He also spoke of the injustices Palestinian's experience as a result of Christian Zionist theology that privileges the State of Israel. Instead, he made clear that the biblical story speaks of God's love for the whole world (John 3.16) and that the gifts of life are meant for the flourishing of all peoples. He then talked about specific ways we can 'pray for peace and act for peace.'

For more information on an Anabaptist perspective on working for peace with justice in Israel-Palestine, go to MennoPIN.org.

Playing for an End to Homelessness
The Justice Committee of PMC is glad to co-sponsor the Rob Scheps Trio with New City Initiative. The Committee is focusing on homelessness in Portland as we “seek the peace of the city.”  

The Justice Committee at PMC is Chris Harder, Joe Blowers, Dale Stitt, Annalisa Brenneman, Karyn Keating, Matt Newell-Ching, and Rod Stafford