Diocesan News
Dublin and Glendalough launch Diocese of Jerusalem Appeal
“The deepening situation of distress and disintegration of human life and of human dignity in Israel and Gaza deserves our response” – Archbishop of Dublin
The United Dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough have launched an appeal to support the Diocese of Jerusalem in its efforts to deal with the impact of the current war. The Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem is home to about 7,000 Anglicans. It is also responsible for more than 30 institutions, including hospitals, schools, clinics and rehabilitation centres which welcome all people regardless of their faith or background. These include Al–Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza.
The United Diocese of Dublin and Glendalough began supporting Al–Ahli Hospital in 2014 when the people of the diocese raised over €120,000 during Advent to fund the installation of solar panels and the upgrading of on–call facilities for staff. The relationship between the two dioceses has deepened since 2016 when a formal link was established which has seen pilgrimages and joint clergy retreats taking place. The link has been coordinated by the Dublin and Glendalough Council for Mission.
Commenting on the appeal, Archbishop Michael Jackson said: “For almost three weeks now we have watched in horror as war has raged in the Holy Land once again resulting in the deaths of thousands of innocent people both in Israel and in Gaza. Violence has also spread to other areas.
“But while the world has been watching, our partners in the Diocese of Jerusalem have been continuing their ministry of Christian outreach. The Anglican diocese, through its many institutions, both medical and educational, serves people from all faith backgrounds.”
Chairman of the Council for Mission, the Revd Rob Clements, has urged people in parishes throughout the dioceses to support the appeal. “In recent years we have developed a close friendship with the Diocese of Jerusalem. It is right that we stand alongside them at this terrible time. We cannot shy away from acting. Alongside your prayer and advocacy, this appeal is a concrete way in which we can respond to those affected by the conflict in Gaza,” he stated.
An explosion at Al–Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza city on Tuesday October 17, killed and wounded hundreds of people who had sought safety in the grounds. Despite damage to the building, the hospital staff are determined to continue their work treating the ill and the injured in very difficult conditions, not to mention the threat to their own lives.
Other diocesan institutions such as the Princess Basma Centre on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem provide vital outreach and services. The Princess Basma Centre is an inclusive school and rehabilitation centre for children with disabilities, many of whom travel from Gaza. It had been due to open a new centre in Al–Ahli Hospital next month. This centre will be a crucial support for the newly maimed children in need of physical therapy but also for psychological support for the children of Gaza who will suffer from post traumatic stress disorder.
The funds raised by Dublin and Glendalough will go to support the Diocese of Jerusalem and its institutions in dealing with the fall out of the conflict in whatever way is needed.
In launching his worldwide appeal, Archbishop Hosam Naoum, the Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem asked for three things: prayer, advocacy and financial support.
“Although Ahli’s buildings were heavily damaged, two nights later our devoted staff partially reopened the hospital. In doing this, they demonstrated the determination we have in the Diocese of Jerusalem to persevere in our Christian mission to serve others as though we were serving Christ himself (Matt 25 :31–46). And this is the case not just for Gaza, but throughout all the Holy Land. Yet in order to accomplish this mission in the midst of a devastating war, we need to draw upon the strength of the larger Body of Christ. For we understand that when one member of the Body suffers, all parts suffer (1 Cor 12:26),” he said.
He added: “And so, my sisters and brothers in Christ, I appeal to you to first of all to pray for our mission here, as well for the peace of Jerusalem (Psa 122:6). Secondly, advocate with your representatives for a just and lasting peace in the Holy Land, so that all who dwell within these lands can live in security. Finally, if you are able, support our ministries in Gaza, Palestine and Israel, and throughout the Diocese of Jerusalem by contributing financially through one of our international partners.”
Archbishop Michael Jackson has urged the people of the dioceses and beyond to support this appeal for the Diocese of Jerusalem. He said: “The deepening situation of distress and disintegration of human life and of human dignity in Israel and Gaza deserves our response and our support. I encourage you to contribute to this appeal as generously as possible to address human need and alleviate human suffering”.
You can support the appeal by donating by electronic transfer to: Diocesan Funds of Dublin and Glendalough No 1 A/C Current Account, Bank of Ireland, 2 COLLEGE GREEN DUBLIN 2 IBAN: IE50 BOFI 9000 1769 3548 78, BIC: BOFIIE2D. Cheques may be sent to Diocesan Offices of Dublin and Glendalough, Church of Ireland House, Church Avenue, Rathmines, Dublin 6, D06 CF67.
You can find more information on the Diocese of Jerusalem here: https://j-diocese.org/wordpress
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Dublin & Glendalough
087 235 6472
Mrs Lynn Glanville
dcodublin@gmail.com