Lessons From Unsettling Advent
This issue of A Public Witness shares some of the meaningful insights we’ve learned from Unsettling Advent this year on the topics of state executions, political anxieties, and bloodshed in Israel.
Unsettling Advent 2023, Day 19
Christmas reminds us it is precisely in the midst of the darkness of hatred that it is time for love to be born.
Pope Francis Condemns Saturday’s Israeli Attack on Christian Church As Act of Terrorism
'It’s war, it’s terrorism,' Pope Francis said.
Under the Shadow of War in Gaza, Jesus’s Traditional Birthplace Is Gearing Up for a Subdued Christmas
Officials in Jesus's traditional birthplace decided to forgo celebrations due to the Israel-Hamas war.
Unsettling Advent 2023, Day 16
Rev. Alex Awad, a retired minister who served as pastor at East Jerusalem Baptist Church and a professor at Bethlehem Bible College, reflects on modern-day Herods and how the Christmas story gives oppressed people around the world hope.
Unsettling Advent 2023, Day 15
Rev. Dr. Mae Elise Cannon, executive director of Churches for Middle East Peace, offers this first entry in our week exploring the theme of Advent during a time of bloodshed in Israel.
Ahead of White House Hanukkah Celebration, a Wave of Faith-Led Cease-Fire Demonstrations
The demonstrators, who were later arrested, noted the ongoing Jewish holiday, shouting, 'No Hanukkah to celebrate, cease-fire cannot wait!'
Bethlehem Pastors Arrive in DC, Urge Lawmakers To Embrace Cease-Fire, Peace Plan
'All we want for Christmas is a constant and comprehensive cease-fire and an end to this war,' said the Rev. Munther Isaac, pastor of Bethlehem’s Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church.
Claiborne, Barber, Budde Among Christian Leaders Calling for Gaza Cease-Fire at White House Vigil
'We must join forces with Jews and Christians and Muslims around the world who are calling for a cease-fire in Gaza, and the safe return of all hostages and civilian prisoners," said the Rev. William Barber II.
American Evangelicals Interpret Israel-Hamas War as a Prelude to End Times
Armed conflicts involving Israel are often associated with End Times’ battles by American evangelicals, as many believe the Jewish state will play a role in fulfilling the biblical prophecy.