FHL Giving Hope Issue 2

GIVING HOPE ISSUE 2

INSIDE: + THANK YOU: Your ongoing support shines as a powerful light of hope for Christians in the Holy Land Page 5

+ HOLY LAND: Our response to the humanitarian crisis Page 6 + SCHOLARSHIPS: Helping the next generation Page 20

Your support is having a profound impact

THIS IS WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MEANS “When the Gaza war started, everything changed.

Checkpoints and gates made it impossible to commute from Nablus, where my wife and children live, so I couldn’t get to work. This support has allowed me to cover some of my family’s expenses. Coming from an area like Nablus, where Christians are a small minority, knowing this help came from believers in the UK truly shows me the real body of Christ.”

Alaa, Small business support grant recipient

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WELCOME

CONTENTS

I am deeply grateful for your faithful support at a time of great devastation for the Christian communities we help across the Holy Land.

+ Thank you Page 4

+ Gaza Page 14

+ Small Business Support Page 6

+ UK News Page 16

+ Holy Land Support Page 8

+ Scholarship Programme Page 20

+ Appeal Page 12

+ Future Projects Page 23

Friends of the Holy Land is a UK Registered Charity (Charity Number 1202568).

Registered Office Farmer Ward Road, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2DH T 01926 512980 E office@friendsoftheholyland.org.uk

In this issue, you will read how, with your help, we have greatly increased funding for existing programmes and launched new projects to respond to the desperate situation.

To ensure we can reach across the entire West Bank at this critical time, we have recruited new team members and opened a small office in Ramallah. This is essential given the severe obstacles to travel now in place with over 180 gates and 900+ checkpoints.

Nader Issa Ghneim joined us in November 2024 to lead our West Bank Operations, visiting families, parishes, and projects to ensure we are making the most effective, direct impact. To give some context to the challenges, a simple journey of 15 miles from Bethlehem to Ramallah can now take him five hours.

Our new office in Ramallah is a small space in St Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

Two new part-time recruits work from this office: Dima Isayed, based in Zababdeh covers the northern region up to Jenin.

Meanwhile, Latifa Aranki, (the mother of Layan Nasser who you may have read was held in detention for 10 months) is more concentrated in the Ramallah, Birzeit and surrounding areas. Nancy Wahhab and Reem Aburdeneh remain in our Bethlehem office.

With this new team we can be certain that with your help we are reaching even the parishes most isolated by the current travel restrictions and have the most up to date information of their circumstances.

It is estimated that the devastating effect of the ongoing war has set back the living standards of Christian communities by around 10 years. Those falling into the category of the most vulnerable are greatly increasing and so are the requests we are receiving for help.

The challenge we must face now is planning how we can continue our programmes for the next 5 – 10 years.

Therefore, we humbly ask you to consider

a regular gift – every contribution helps us plan this vital work.

Thank you for journeying with us. Your love and practical help sustain so many lives.

God Bless +

“The devastating effect of the ongoing war has set back the living standards of Christian communities by around 10 years.”

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THANK YOU

Thank You for Standing With Us Thank you for your ongoing faithfulness and support. In these times of grave uncertainty, your commitment shines as a powerful light of hope for Christians in the Holy Land.

Sixteen-year-old Youseff* has more questions than answers, “Will tourism come back? Will the situation improve? Will we be the same again?

Will we ever regain stability?”

He’s certainly not alone. With each passing day, as the war continues, security seems to slip further away.

But we must remember: the opposite of uncertainty isn’t certainty – it’s hope. And your continued support fuels that hope amidst the anxiety and fear that prevail in the region.

Generosity Fuels Hope Your generosity to our Lent Appeal raised a phenomenal £172,000.

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These funds are already:

• Training young people in essential skills such as engineering, nursing, and trade skills • Supporting aspiring entrepreneurs with grants • Mentoring a new generation of leaders shaped by integrity and faith This support is giving people in the region a focus for today – and hope for tomorrow.

Youseff is one of the students you’re helping to support at the Salesian Vocational Training Centre.

He says, “Education has always been a source of hope for me. It’s not just about learning or getting a certificate; it’s about building a future where I can support my family and create a better life for us.”

Strength in Solidarity Beyond the financial impact, our partners in the Holy Land tell us that your support is sustaining them

THANK YOU

emotionally and spiritually. The plight of Christian communities in the region remains largely unreported in mainstream media. But knowing that you stand alongside them – grieving with them, praying with them – gives them the strength to carry on.

The longer the war continues, the more vital this support becomes. It calls to mind the passage in Exodus 17:12–14, when Moses struggles to lift his hands, and Aaron and Hur come to his aid. They cannot remove Moses from the situation, but their presence sustains him through it.

Thank you for not giving up – and for standing with us against adversity, with enduring hope. +

“Your generosity raised a phenomenal £172,000 to our Lent Appeal”

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HOLY LAND

HOLY LAND

Income Generation – Small Business Support

Oraib Oraib is a widow from Birzeit who dreams of reviving the family’s honey farm. The farm is a labour of love that was started by her husband before his death. With support from Friends of the Holy Land, she and her son Elia will be able to support themselves and their family.

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It’s harder than ever to find work in the Holy Land. But together, we’re helping to grow and sustain a number of small businesses.

JOB CREATION ACROSS THE WEST BANK

With your help, we are helping families to put food on the table by supporting fledgling businesses. Grants are also provided for equipment to help them establish their enterprise, some of which have the potential to grow and employ others. Raising £500 a month gives enough to feed their family.

By working in partnership with churches and local Christian organisations, our Job Creation Project has helped more than 500 people across the West Bank to secure three-month work placements.

Muin Muin and his family have received a boost of investment in their egg farm. A grant of £2200 has helped the family purchase an incubator, chickens, feed, and other essential supplies. Production has begun and as the sales increase, Muin is already thinking about expansion.

George At 20 years old, George is already an experienced car mechanic and has been awarded a grant of 6,500 NIS (£1,350) to start his own business. His family have struggled since losing his father eight years ago, and this boost will help George support his mother and two sisters with a stable income.

Zaki Zaki recently graduated from the Institut Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France, and has been developing his French dessert business from his family’s home kitchen. He’s using his grant to upgrade his equipment and expand his business.

Zaki says, “This support has helped me take my business to the next level.”

↑ ZAKI WITH SOME OF HIS DESERTS

One of the beneficiaries is Jeries, whose family has faced significant hardship since his father passed away 11 years ago. His mother earns a modest income at a printing shop, but the family has often struggled financially. Through the project, Jeries took a three-month placement as an assistant chef at the Franciscan

Children’s Home in Bethlehem.

Alongside invaluable work experience, he’s been able to earn a small salary of around 4,500 NIS (£1000).

Reflecting on the opportunity, Jeries says, “This job came at a time when I felt lost. It gave me hope, dignity, and a reason to keep going. I’m deeply thankful to the donors who made this possible. Your support has helped me and my family through some of our hardest days, and now it’s helping me take the first steps toward a new life.” +

“Your support has helped me and my family through some of our hardest days.”

SCAN THE QR CODE TO MAKE A REGULAR GIFT TO HELP SUPPORT THE JOB CREATION PROJECT

THIS IS WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MEANS “My husband is unemployed, and I was not working either. I’ve always had a passion for cooking, but I used to feel a sense of emptiness at home, with no hope for the future. However, the moment I started working as a cook at the Evangelical Home, everything changed. I began to feel so hopeful.”

Rania from Gaza living in Ramallah, Participant in the Job Creation Programme

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HOLY LAND

HOLY LAND

“I would have lost my vision forever.

May God bless your work and your lives.”

RESPONDING TO THE MEDICAL AND HUMANITARIAN CRISIS The longer the war in the Middle East goes on, the greater the humanitarian crisis. In response, we’ve increased our monthly budget for emergency relief from £15,000 to £20,000.

When times are hard, an unforeseen cost or medical bill can quickly become a life-threatening crisis and existing debts mount up. Last month, we’ve responded to a variety of critical needs, including: • Covering the medical needs of 90 people • Providing humanitarian aid to 10 families • Helping eight individuals access critical surgery • Funding regular medicine for chronic conditions for 27 families Here’s a snapshot of some of those we’ve been able to support:

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Fahmi Fahmi is 70 and needed urgent eye surgery, but with no work, he simply couldn’t afford it. We gave him £200 to access surgery and then £100 for follow-up medication. “If it weren’t for your help, I would have lost my vision forever,” says Fahmi. “May God bless your work and your lives. A plethora of thanks, appreciation, and respect.”

Shibli 63-year-old Shibli is battling heart disease and cancer and needs £110 a month for essential medication. With your help, we’ve supported him with this cost, relieving a huge burden on the household. He says, “I was able to get the medication for an extended period, which allowed me to use the money that was previously spent on medicine to meet the needs of my household.”

has helped her pay bills, buy gas for cooking, and cover some of the rent.

↑ SHIBLI

Marline A few years ago, 49-year-old Marline was forced to move out of Ramallah when rent there became too expensive.

She and her family now need support to ensure it doesn’t happen again. With few opportunities for steady income, a donation from Friends of the Holy Land

Shatha Shatha has suffered from a chronic respiratory condition since childhood.

Her husband used to work in Israel, but when the war began, his work permit was denied, and he lost his job. We’ve provided Shatha with a year’s worth of vital medication (costing £430) and an oxygen concentrator (£300). She says, “If it weren’t for your help, I would have suffocated at night. Thank you.” +

↑ SHATHA

THIS IS WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MEANS “The situation became so dire that I was forced to stop taking my essential medication for six long months. The impact was devastating. I truly believe that if it weren’t for the grace of God, my faith, and the prayers of my family, I would have died. This (support from FHL) wasn’t just assistance; it was a life-saving intervention.”

Riyad and Sonia, Recipients of Emergency Support

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HOLY LAND

HOLY LAND

SUMMER CAMPS BRING JOY AND HOPE

JERUSALEM AFRICAN COMMUNITY CENTRE

Last summer, Friends of the Holy Land sponsored six summer camps — three near Bethlehem, two in the north of the West Bank and one in Nazareth. This summer we have committed to almost double the number of camps throughout the summer in response to the worsening conditions.

Last year, we began partnering with the Jerusalem African Community Centre (JACC), which supports asylum seekers, many of whom have fled conflict in countries such as Sudan and Eritrea.

For many children living under daily hardship, these camps provided a safe haven where they could play, learn, and simply be children. Alongside fun activities, the camps offered trauma therapy to help young people cope with the challenges of their experiences. This year, we aim to fund at least 10 camps, with more applications arriving.

THIS IS WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MEANS “The $3,000 grant I received from Friends of the Holy Land (FHL) was a pivotal step on the path I had envisioned for myself. It felt like someone finally saw my potential and was willing to invest in it.”

Bahaa Isaved, Grant Beneficiary

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The 12-day war with Iran has changed the plans for many camps this summer. Several were immediately postponed due to fears over safety and restrictions on movement.

Now the situation is more stable, most summer camps are back in planning but they have to be more flexible than ever. Many day trips cannot happen, especially in the North where they would have planned trips to places like Bethlehem and Jifna but travel outside of the city is not possible.

Organisers are still determined to give the children the best experiences they can as these photos from the very recent summer camp in Ramallah show.

We are grateful for your continued support in bringing hope and healing to children and families in need. +

Around 3,000 African asylum seekers currently live in Jerusalem, one third are children. Together, they constitute one of the largest Christian populations in the city. For more than a decade, JACC has been the only organisation dedicated to supporting them.

Last year, we provided £25,000, and this year that has increased to £37,000 to support their work in the following areas: • Psychosocial and humanitarian aid: including more than 2,300 counselling sessions, emergency aid packages, and food deliveries • Legal aid: helping navigate Israel’s complex asylum and immigration systems • Social services: assistance with housing, employment, and healthcare access

• Children’s programmes: summer school, mentoring, after-school activities, and school supplies • Community support: adult education, English and Hebrew classes, computer literacy, and community events +

“Your support is having a profound impact on the Christian African refugee community in Jerusalem.

Yulia Zemach, JACC CEO

↑ JACC YOUTH ATHLETIC TEAM RUNNING THE JERUSALEM 5K

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APPEAL

Christians are at Breaking Point Your monthly gift could help them hold on to hope.

Right now, Christians in Gaza are living through the worst war in living memory. It has had a profound impact on those living in the West Bank, Israel and Jordan. Entire communities in the northern West Bank have been displaced; towns and cities in Israel are more polarised than ever; and Arabs, Christians and Muslims, face increased institutionalised discrimination.

Across the region, most Christians struggle financially and many are destitute. With no end in sight, our brothers and sisters face years of fear, uncertainty and heartache.

As a result, in the past 12 months, more than 1,000 Christian families left

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the West Bank for good – around 10% of the entire Christian population. At heart, most take pride in their ancient Christian heritage, coming from communities founded by the Apostles.

However, without hope, many now feel they have no choice but to leave.

We need to act now to inspire families to believe that they have a future by remaining.

Which is why we’re asking all of you to prayerfully discern if you can make a regular donation to support your brothers and sisters in the Holy Land, no matter how small. For those of you who are already supporting us with a regular gift, THANK YOU. Could you consider a small increase in the gift to reflect the increase in cost of living?

Your monthly gift provides more than emergency aid. You’ll be giving families something even more powerful: hope for the future – and the confidence to stay.

This is a moment when solidarity matters deeply. Your ongoing support tells our brothers and sisters, “You are not forgotten. We are with you — today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes.”

Right now, the region is facing the perfect storm.

Every day the war continues, needs are rising. But at the same time, international funding is being cut.

USAID has already cancelled their support and other governments are following.

As a result, local Christian schools, clinics, and community projects face a funding crisis, leaving thousands without vital services and support.

You could step in and secure their future.

For the cost of a daily coffee, you can:

I nspire a student with a vocational scholarship elp a family start a small H business to put bread on the table rovide life-saving medical P treatment to someone in need

Extraordinary times call for extraordinary generosity.

APPEAL

Give a gift of HOPE today Please give securely online at: www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/donate Or scan the QR code. If you prefer, you can send back this form in the envelope provided.

I like would to give a one off gift of hope:

Unlike many larger international agencies, we work personally, locally, and immediately. We know the people we support by name and, with a local bank account, can get funding to those in need – fast.

In these unprecedented times, this is our moment to act.

£35

£80

Another Amount

£115

£250

£750

(Please specify)

I enclose my donation by: cheque or charity voucher – payable to Friends of the Holy Land I have made a bank transfer – to NatWest Bank | 60-05-41 | 24591211

The lifeline of your monthly donation will help keep hope alive.

We will use your kind gifts where they will have the greatest impact during and after this time of conflict. Thank you so much.

My contact details:

• £35 a month could give a child a place at summer camp to find relief from trauma.

• £80 a month could equip young people with skills for work and leadership.

• £115 a month could provide vital medication for a patient with a chronic condition.

• £250 a month could help one family start a small business.

Please, if you are able, commit to a regular monthly gift today. Together, we can help ensure that Christians in the Holy Land have the hope, support and strength to stay. +

£20

Name: Address:

Postcode Email: Telephone:

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Return: Friends of The Holy Land, Farmer Ward Road, Kenilworth CV8 2DH

YES, I want to Increase your donation – at no cost to you!

Friends of the Holy Land can reclaim the tax means every £1 donated by basic rate taxpayers is worth £1.25!

I want to Gift Aid this donation and any future donations or donations I have made in the past 4 years to Friends of the Holy Land. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less income tax and/or capital gains tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year it is my responsibility to pay any difference.

I will notify Friends of the Holy Land if I want to cancel this declaration, change my name or home address or no longer pay sufficient tax or capital gains.

Today’s Date: (Please complete)

Give a monthly gift of HOPE today

GAZA

Please set up a monthly gift securely online at: www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/donate Or scan the QR code. If you prefer, you can send back this form in the envelope provided.

An unrelenting, humanitarian catastrophe

I’m giving:

£35 per month

£80 per month

£115 per month

£250 per month

Another Amount per month (Please specify)

Please complete your contact details overleaf Standing Order Form: To the manager at: (your bank name) Bank branch address: Bank postcode: Please pay FHL monthly the amount of £ From my account number: Starting on (date):

until further notice.

Name of account holder: Signed: Date: To: Sort Code 60-05-41 Account 24591211 Please credit the account of: Friends of the Holy Land

In Gaza, daily life is heartbreaking.

Barefoot children search through garbage for food scraps. Mosquitoes spread disease. Even food distributions from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation sometimes descend into chaos and violence.

In Gaza City, where movement is severely restricted, aid is even harder to access.

The suffering of the Christian community here remains largely invisible to the outside world.

As we write, around 650 Christians are sheltering in the Holy Family Catholic Church and St Porphyrios Orthodox Church. The last aid convoy reached them on 8 March, so supplies are critically low, with estimates suggesting they have less than a month before food runs out – they are on the brink of starvation. Critical medications are also unavailable; there have been more deaths

SPIRITUAL

Inflation and Black Market Commissions Basic necessities have become nearly impossible to afford. When available on the black market, tinned goods, medicine, and fuel cost up to 700% more than before the war. Fuel alone is £20–£25 per litre. Without it, the church cannot pump water from its well – cutting off water not only to those sheltering but also to the surrounding communities.

The nearby Al Ahli Hospital, the only one still functioning in Gaza City, faces relentless challenges. Hit five times since 7 October, most recently on 5 June, it operates with severe shortages of staff, medicines, anaesthetics, antibiotics, fuel, food, and water.

“They are on the brink of starvation” Increase your donation – at no cost to you! Please complete the declaration overleaf

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courage – offering services, prayer, and trauma support despite the danger. To give an example, Father Gabriel recently had to climb onto the church roof to find a phone signal.

Please remember them in your prayers and continue helping us fund the lifesaving programmes of the LPJ and DoJ. +

among the elderly with chronic illnesses unable to find their medication than from the violence of war.

To help address this, we are making regular grants to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem (LPJ) and the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem (DoJ) to go towards their overall total monthly costs of $100,000 (£73,000).

Remarkable Courage To help ensure we are channelling funds and support for maximum impact, we are in close contact with Father Gabriel Romanelli, the Catholic parish priest, and Orthodox Bishop Alexius. Both lead their communities with extraordinary

THIS IS WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MEANS

“I’m beyond grateful for opportunities like this that have given me hope to keep going, even in the midst of the hardest times. Being part of this programme has not only helped me grow professionally, but it has also reminded me that there is always light, even in challenging times”.

Natalie from Bethlehem, Participant in the Job Creation Programme

Pray for the people of the Holy Land As the war approaches its second anniversary, let us call on the name of the Lord Almighty. Use these seven prayer points on your own, in your household, and/or small group: 1. Pray for Peace and Protection (Psalm 91:1-2) Pray that God will grant them His divine protection and peace. Shield them with your wings O Lord, and comfort those who have lost loved ones.

2. P rayer for the Hostages (Psalm 34:17) Lord, we lift up the hostages being held in Gaza. We ask for their safe release and that you comfort them in their distress.

3. P rayer for Civilians in Gaza and the West Bank (Psalm 46:1) We pray for the innocent civilians in this war who are suffering. Have mercy on them and provide for their needs.

4. Prayer for Leaders’ Wisdom (James 1:5) Heavenly Father, grant wisdom and discernment to all leaders involved in decision-making. May they seek your guidance in every step.

5. Prayer for an End to Violence (Matthew 5:9) Prince of Peace, we cry out for an end to the violence and bloodshed. Bring about reconciliation and understanding among the divided communities of the Holy Land. May your peace prevail.

6. P rayer for International Leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2) We pray for all world leaders to influence the leaders in the Holy Land.

May they work towards a peaceful resolution and support efforts to bring an end to this conflict.

7. P rayer for Healing and Unity (2 Chronicles 7:14) Heavenly Father, we humble ourselves and seek your face. Heal the land, bring unity among people, and let your love shine through even in the darkest of times. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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UK NEWS

A Moment for UNITY AND PEACE On Tuesday, 20 May 2025, an incredibly special service brought leaders from Christian traditions together for a shared act of worship in both London and Jerusalem.

↑ TEMPLE CHURCH, LONDON

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↑ ATTENDEES IN LONDON WATCH THE REV CANON DON

BINDER, CHAPLAIN TO THE ARCHBISHOP IN JERUSALEM

↑ RT REV AND RT HON LORD CHARTRES, TEMPLE CHURCH

With a live link-up connecting Temple Church in the City of London with the Co-Cathedral of the Most Holy Name of Jesus in Jerusalem, it was a poignant way to mark the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. As choral music from both churches swelled, it was a beautiful moment to pause and focus our hearts on our common ground as Christians.

A few days before his death, Pope Francis had written a message expressly for the service. In it, he remarked on “the rich religious tapestry that characterises the land of our Saviour’s birth” and called for an immediate cessation of the conflict there. In light of his recent passing, these words – read

by Cardinal Vincent Nichols in London – took on even greater resonance,

encouraging us all to stand together in pursuit of peace and unity.

Later, in a sermon broadcast from Jerusalem, His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa remarked on the political and cultural divisions out of which the Nicene Creed had emerged, making its very existence a remarkable declaration of unity. “The Church today is called not only to pronounce the profession of faith, but to make it alive and credible through the witness of its members,” he commented powerfully. +

↑ TEMPLE CHURCH ATTENDEES IN

LONDON WATCH CARDINAL PIERBATTISTA PIZZABALLA, LATIN PATRIARCH OF JERUSALEM

↑ CLERGY AND DIGNITARIES ATTENDING TEMPLE CHURCH

YOU CAN WATCH THE FULL SERVICE HERE: www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/event/temple25

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UK NEWS

Cycling the CAMINO Congratulations to Michael and Annabel, who cycled an impressive 210 km of the Camino in northern Spain in aid of water projects in the Holy Land.

↑ ANNABEL AND MICHAEL AT A STOP ALONG THE CAMINO WAY

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Water supply in Bethlehem can be unreliable – sometimes only available for two days a month. Households are often forced to buy water at great expense. For £1,000, old and damaged water tanks can be removed and replaced, easing some of the challenges families face on a daily basis.

Michael and Annabel raised over £2,375, enough to fund water tanks and installation for two families in the Bethlehem area. They thank everyone who donated – and well done, Michael and Annabel! +

SUPPORT CHRISTIANS in the Holy Land this Summer Summer is the perfect time to gather friends and family for some fundraising fun—and it doesn’t need to take much time or planning to make a big impact.

Whether it’s a BBQ with family rounders, a sporting challenge, a church board games bonanza, or an office quiz over lunch, you can have a lot of fun while raising valuable funds. + Find more fundraising ideas at www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/ summer-fundraiser

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR FUNDRAISING IDEAS

SCAN THE QR CODE TO SET UP A REGULAR GIFT TO FRIENDS OF THE HOLY LAND

Pay Roll GIVING

As you know, regular giving helps charities to budget and plan resources effectively. But did you also know that you can make regular, tax-free donations from pre-tax income?

Confirmation Candidates RAISE £1,788 A big thank you to the confirmation candidates from St George’s, Sudbury, who raised funds for Friends of the Holy Land as part of their parish Lenten charity appeal.

On Sunday, 30 March, 45 candidates completed a 5 km sponsored walk with their catechists around the boundaries of the parish, helping to raise an impressive £1,788.

We were also delighted to send a representative to speak directly to the group about the challenges faced by Christians still living in the West Bank, Gaza, Israel, and Jordan. +

THIS IS WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MEANS “Being accepted into the Friends of the Holy Land Job Creation Programme was the moment everything began to change.It wasn’t just about the money; it was about having a purpose again and being able to fulfill my responsibilities.”

Ra’if Awwad, Participant in the Job Creation Programme

With payroll giving, we receive your donation plus the additional money that you’d otherwise pay in tax.

This means if you’re a 20% taxpayer setting up a £10 direct debit, you’ll only see £8 deducted from your salary.

It’s safe and secure, and the fact that we don’t need to claim Gift Aid eases administration as well. You can support multiple charities at once, and start, stop or change your gifts at any time. You can even remain anonymous if you prefer.

Ready to get started?

Visit https://friendsoftheholyland. hopg.co.uk/ If you’re an employer, you’ll need to run a Payroll Giving scheme before donations can begin. +

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SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarship Programme The scholarship programme gives young people a purpose, a route to a steady income, and encouragement from their wider Christian family across the world.

“All our students show incredible resilience” Through our scholarship programme, we’re helping the next generation of young people to envisage a future and provide them with the skills to build it.

Thanks to your support, 42 students are about to complete their courses at the Episcopal Technology and Vocational Training Centre (ETVTC) in Ramallah, the Salesian College in Bethlehem, and the University of Bethlehem.

Despite the challenges they have already faced, the group is determined to work hard, use their skills, and support their families. As one student told us, “In our country, no one can plan. Every day something happens that affects us badly.”

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Scholarship – Trade Skills Your support has been helping to fund a new programme this last academic year between the Terra Sancta School and the Salesian College for Vocational Studies.

Students aged 16-18 who are more practically-minded, have been offered the opportunity to join a vocational training programme alongside their schooling.

They attend two days at the Salesian College and three days in school.

The total programme fee is 7,000 NIS (approximately £1,500) per student, per year. With your support, Friends of the Holy Land is contributing half the scholarship cost. We will be supporting students for the second year of the programme when they restart in the autumn term.

SCHOLARSHIPS Meet Some of Our Students Our Salesian College students are all studying a one-year course in a vocational discipline. Here are a few of our recent graduates.

Issa hopes to find a job as an electrician where he can apply his new skills. Despite the difficult situation in Bethlehem, he is determined to support his family and contribute to his community.

All our students show incredible resilience and commitment. Knowing that their places are funded by the generosity of donors, who care deeply about them and their future, is a great encouragement. +

“In our country, no one can plan”

Evan plans to work as a local car mechanic, a field where there is still a demand for his services.

He understands the limited opportunities available to him but is committed to working hard.

Anton wants to find a stable job as an electrician to help his family improve their living conditions.

He is open to any opportunity where he can use his skills.

HELP US EXTEND THE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME There are many more young people who could benefit from the scholarship programme.

• £50 a month could support a student on a one-year course at the Salesian College • £85 per month could support a student on a two-year course at the ETVTC • £125 per month could support a student on a four-year nursing course

SCAN THE QR CODE TO MAKE A REGULAR GIFT

Visit www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/donate to support a scholarship student today.

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Coming soon: Friends of the Holy Land Christmas cards and gifts

FUTURE PROJECTS

Empowering the Next Generation of Tech Talent From its base in Ramallah, Axsos Academy trains students to work remotely in technology while also helping them build the life skills they need to succeed.

Friends of the Holy Land is launching an inspiring new scholarship programme in collaboration with Axsos Academy to help young Christians in the region build careers in technology.

This forward-thinking programme aims to provide financial support to young people seeking to gain essential IT training – opening doors to both local and global employment opportunities without the need to leave the Holy Land.

The first phase of the programme will support up to 25 students, who will embark on one of three specialised learning pathways: Full Stack Development, Data Science, or Quality Assurance. Training will be available in

“Your support will make a real difference in the lives of these students, and we’re truly grateful for your commitment to education and empowerment,” Jamil Isayyed, AXSOS 22 www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk

person or online, ensuring students can attend regardless of where they are based.

Sustainable Scholarships

We will be working alongside our network of churches in the region to offer these opportunities to local Christian communities, encouraging young people with a passion and aptitude for technology to apply.

Graduates will also play a role in the sustainability of the programme.

After securing stable employment, participants will enter a give-back scheme, contributing financially to support future scholarships and train the next cohort of aspiring tech professionals.

In an increasingly digital world, the skills young people gain will be invaluable – enabling them to work remotely, which is increasingly important in an environment with severe travel restrictions. +

This Christmas, local Christians are reflecting on another year without work or for the lucky few, reduced wages.

All of the goods sold in our catalogue are sourced from local artisans who have no means of income. When you CHRISTMAS buy gifts and Christmas cards, you allow CARD ADVERT us to continue to invest and support those struggling to get by in the region.

Look out for your catalogue and Christmas cards flyer in the autumn.

19 23

YOUR VOICE IS POWERFUL

“Speak out, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31:9 This Bible verse highlights the responsibility we have to advocate for those who lack a voice and to ensure that the poor and vulnerable are treated justly. It’s a call to compassion and social justice – especially relevant to the hardships faced by our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land today.

As our representatives speak in churches, schools and other locations around the country, they tell us that people feel powerless and are often overwhelmed by the terrible sights and news they see in the media.

However, when people learn about our mission and see the direct, positive impact they can have in the face of such distressing news, they often feel a sense of relief and hope.

Your Voice is Powerful

We are a growing charity with a powerful mission that so many have yet to discover.

Spreading awareness of our mission through word of mouth is one of the most effective ways you can help us reach new supporters.

As you’ve seen in our recent updates, the needs we are facing continue to grow – and we urgently need your help to expand our community of supporters.

Overwhelmed with options and noise, people are turning to friends, family, or online communities to recommendations to inform their giving decisions. +

One Simple Act

So, we ask you to do one simple but meaningful thing each month — share with others why you believe in our mission and the difference it’s making. Some ideas to do this:

• Pass this edition of Giving Hope to a friend. Need extra copies? Call us on 01926 512980 – we’re happy to send you more.

• Share our monthly email updates. They include impact stories and short videos that others may find inspiring.

• Engage with us on social media. Like, share, and comment on our posts on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

• Speak with your Church Minister about our mission and ask their help to share more with your congregation.

• Spread the word at home, at work or in your local community.

With your action, we trust the Holy Spirit will then guide and inspire them.