Churches provide support for Gaza civilians

With the deepening conflict in the Middle East, Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance, a global grouping of church-based agencies working in emergencies worldwide, has announced that it is working with local partners to provide support for civilians who have been wounded and displaced by the ongoing Israeli operation against Palestinian militants in Gaza.

ACT Alliance, the Department of Support to Palestinian Refugees of the Middle East Council of Churches and its partner in Gaza, the Near East Council of Churches (NECC), will provide primary healthcare for mother and child, cash relief to 500 families severely affected by the bombardments, and psychosocial support to NECC staff and family.

Norwegian Church Aid, an alliance member, will also provide support to Al Ahli Arab Hospital, a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, in the form of fuel, medications and medical supplies to provide comprehensive in-patient services to wounded and non-injured patients, and psychosocial support to thousands of women and children affected by the offensive.

Last February, the Anglican Church of Canada’s Anglican Video visited Jerusalem and Gaza, to document the various ministries of the Jerusalem diocese. This video explains the critical role the hospital plays in the life of Gaza City’s residents.

Meanwhile, in a statement posted on its website, the Diocese of Jerusalem said it continues to hold the people of Gaza and the region in its prayers, “hoping that the violence will end soon.” Diocese of Jerusalem Bishop Suheil Dawani is also in regular contact with the Al Ahli Hospital “to ensure that staff and families are safe.”