ELCJHL schools offer hope amid conflict
Despite ongoing devastation and uncertainty, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL) continues to demonstrate resilience and faith.
For many years, and particularly over the past two years, the conflict in Gaza has caused immense suffering and loss of life. And while a ceasefire is in place, it feels fragile. We continue to stand in solidarity with our partners and all who are working for peace and justice in the region.
Recently, ELCIC National Bishop Larry Kochendorfer, in partnership with Rev. Shane Parker, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada wrote to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, expressing a deep concern over the devastating post-ceasefire conditions in Gaza and the West Bank.
The leaders noted actions like blocking aid were “grave breaches of the Fourth Geneva Convention,” and urged the Prime Minister to uphold international humanitarian law and address the major issues at hand, while praying for justice and peace.
Amid these challenges, the ELCIC’s partner church – the ELCJHL – continues to gather and worship whenever possible. Students returned for the 2025/26 school year, and church services are being held weekly, a testament to the steadfast faith and resilience even amid uncertainty.
“After two years of war, our community is experiencing a time of great need. Two of these concerns are the economic situation and the need for mental health and psychosocial care. We give thanks for the current ceasefire, and we pray that it continues,” shared ELCJHL Bishop Dr. Sani Ibrahim Azar.
“We also pray that this will lead to a lasting and just peace in the region, and that the long road to healing will begin. In the meantime, our people in the West Bank and Jerusalem are struggling with a very difficult economic situation. Our Diaconal Ministry continues to help people access food, medical care, school tuition, housing assistance, and more.”
When asked what the people of his church needed the most, Bishop Azar shared:
“People are in need of spiritual, emotional, and mental healthcare. Everyone has been deeply impacted by the suffering of the last few years, and we know that psychosocial relief will be an ongoing need for years to come. We ask that our partners and friends around the world continue to pray for peace based in justice that ensures safety, dignity, and equality for all people in the region, and all those that call the Holy Land home.”
The ELCJHL operates four kindergarten to Grade 12 schools within the region, serving over 3,000 students in Bethlehem, Beit Sahour, Beit Jala and Ramallah. For many of the students, getting back to school amid the conflict has been a welcomed return to ‘normalcy.’ For others, it simply serves as a safe space during a time of ongoing conflict.
“Coming to school feels like going to a second home, a safe environment surrounded by supportive students, teachers, and administrators,” said Sarah, of the Evangelical Lutheran School of Hope.
Her schoolmate, Basel, added: “We don’t want war or walls, we just want a normal life, where we can walk to school safely and dream without fear.”
Despite the recent signing of ceasefires, children and families within the area are still facing detrimental challenges daily due to the ongoing results from the two-year war. And for most of these students, their only ask is to go to school and see their friends.
“I’m proud to be part of a school that has shaped me since my first poem and speech, offering opportunities like MUN (Model United Nations), the Environmental Club, and the choir,” said Natalie, of Dar Al Kalima Evangelical Lutheran School.
The ELCIC, in partnership with the Eastern Synod, launched an appeal to support the ministries of the ELCJHL with a goal of raising $50,000. Overall giving to the appeal is currently just over $42,000.
The war between Israel and Hamas has greatly impacted those in the ELCJHL. Most have relatives in the Gaza region. Restricted movement in the region has continued to impact people’s ability to work and move freely, resulting in huge financial implications for the church.
The ELCIC’s long-standing relationship with the ELCJHL is a vital expression of our shared faith and commitment to justice and peace. You are invited to pray for peace, learn more about the work of the ELCJHL and give generously to the ELCJHL Appeal. Donations can be made by visiting https://secure.elcic.ca.
