Bearing witness to Palestinian Christian voices
September 18, 2026
As World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel takes place this week, the Uniting Church is invited to listen, pray and stand in solidarity with communities longing for peace and justice.
In July this year, the Uniting Church hosted two Palestinian Christians as part of the “Bearing Witness: Palestinian Christian Voices” events that were staged throughout Australia.
Dr Yousef Khoury, a Palestinian Christian from the Holy Land, shared his experience and reflections on the realities facing Palestinian people and the Christian community living in the land where Jesus walked.
Dr Khoury’s presentation at Leigh Memorial Uniting Church in Sydney is now available to watch online.
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Dr Khoury, along with his colleague Dr Lamma Mansour, offered opportunities for people to hear directly from members of the living Christian community of the Holy Land.
Following the visit, Palestinian Christians in Australia (PCiA) reflected on the importance of Australians simply being willing to “show up, to listen, and to sit with their stories”.
For Christians, listening can itself be an act of solidarity. It reminds us that behind the headlines and statistics are people, families and communities whose lives, hopes and faith are deeply connected to the land.
Dr Khoury spoke candidly about the suffering experienced by Palestinians and the challenges facing Palestinian Christians. He also offered a Christian vision grounded in love, justice and reconciliation.
His words invite us to consider how our faith calls us to respond when others are suffering.
As we mark World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel, may we hold in prayer all those affected by violence and conflict in the Middle East. May we particularly remember children and families living with fear, loss and uncertainty.
And may we continue to listen to the voices of those who call the Holy Land home, remembering that our shared Christian vocation is to seek peace, pursue justice and love our neighbours.
The World Council of Churches has prepared resources for churches and communities observing the week, providing opportunities for prayer, reflection and action.
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