Seeks support for hospitals, schools and churches in the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem
Jerusalem 2000 enters its final stage in September with a mailing of materials to all Episcopal Churches in the United States.
In a letter from the Presiding Bishop and his wife Phoebe, Chair of the Jerusalem 2000 Campaign, churches are asked to schedule a special event and offering during Advent/Epiphany to remember 'our sister and brother Christians in the Middle East.' The materials available to churches to help define the need and opportunity in the Middle East include a poster, brochure, mite box, and a recently produced video featuring footage of the diocesan institutions and interviews with members of the Diocese of Jerusalem.
The campaign, which originally began in September 2000, is part of a worldwide effort launched by the Archbishop of Canterbury. Its purpose is to raise funds for the capital needs of the Diocese of Jerusalem. To date, throughout the Anglican Communion, nearly $4 million has been raised toward a goal of $7.5 million. In the Episcopal Church USA, over $800,000 has been raised toward a goal of $2.5 million.
Phoebe Griswold leads the Jerusalem 2000 effort in the United States with support from an Advisory Council and Steering Committee.
The Diocese of Jerusalem, which includes some 7,000 members, includes Anglican churches in the countries of Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine (West Bank and Gaza). The diocese educates more than 5,000 Muslim and Christian students in its schools; operates two hospitals and several medical clinics that serve all in need; sponsors a nursing home; a home for girls; an institute for deaf children; and a college.
Jerusalem 2000 focuses on strengthening the presence of the Anglican Church in the region. The church, through the daily witness of its institutions, leaders believe, is a potent force for peace.
Nearly 200 Jerusalem 2000 representatives have been recruited to help publicise the campaign and its cause throughout the Episcopal Church this fall.
For more information please contact:
Janette O’Neill
Episcopal Church Center
815 Second Avenue
New York
NY 10017
USA
Email: joneill@er-d.org
Article from: Episcopal Church Center, New York