Discussion (a word which may be a bit mild) continues about Israel, Palestine, and statements made by the 2004 General Assembly, especially suggesting that the PC(USA) divest stocks it holds in Caterpillar, Inc.

We have already provided a variety of resources that you can find on another page.

But here are a few more items you may find helpful as the debates continue.

On human rights in Israel/Palestine

Some people have been raising questions about the PC(USA)'s concern for the human rights of Palestinians, as if there has not been equal concern for the rights of the people of Israel, and of other nations around the world.

The new edition of PC(USA) Human Rights Update is now available online and is clear evidence of our denomination's concern about human rights around the world.  On pages 33-40 you will find a discussion specifically on Israel. This annual report on human rights has been done since 1989. The church is also deeply concerned about terrorism, and approved a major study paper on terrorism at the 2004 General Assembly:

For a few recent glimpses into the situation:

The Washington Post (Nov. 27, 2004) had an article about the tragic killing of a Palestinian school girl by Israeli Defense Forces.

The same edition has a brief interview with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.

The Washington Post for Nov. 28 carried an article titled "Checkpoints Take Toll on Palestinians, Israeli Army."

The respected organization Human Rights Watch has recently urged that Caterpillar Inc., the U.S.-based heavy-equipment company, should immediately suspend sales of its powerful D9 bulldozer to the Israeli army, because the Israeli military uses the D9 as its primary weapon to raze Palestinian homes, destroy agriculture and shred roads in violation of the laws of war.  [You can read our own report on the Human Rights Watch action, too.]

Other resources

The special PCUSA web site on Israel and Jewish relations has many good basic points.  It has been noted that this website unfortunately has no articles by Palestinian Christians.

Letter by Clifton Kirkpatrick, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly, after the meeting with Jewish leaders

Letter by Clifton Kirkpatrick to Congressional Critics (includes helpful information on the plight of Palestinians) and news report on it

Here are some relevant news stories from PCUSA (again, these are not linked to the special PCUSA web site on Israel & Jewish relations is missing):

PC(USA) receives arson threat

Two staffers gone in wake of Hezbollah meeting

With death of Arafat, Muslims and Jews look forward

Jerusalem bishop appeals to Christian leaders after Vanunu held

Denominational leaders offer comfort amidst Palestinian transition

Criteria set for Israeli divestment targets

PCUSA's Church & Society magazine for September/October 2004 is titled "A Wall of Security, a Barrier to Peace." It is filled with articles and statements from a range of voices. The 121-page issue includes a large fold-out map and details on the PCUSA actions regarding the question of divestment. Ten or more copies are $2.50 each plus shipping and handling. To order contact: c-s@ctr.pcusa.org, or call 1-888-728-7228 ext. 5810. Also, the .... issue of Church & Society focused on Mission Responsibility Through Investment.

To see the level of US aid going to Israel (a bit dated), problems with Oslo and more, check out http://www.sustaincampaign.org/presentations_resources/pres_res_handouts.html

BeliefNet offers a good article on "Mainline Churches vs. Israel?"

The source of the move toward divestment

It should be noted that the General Assembly action came partly in response to pleas from Palestinian Christians that we do more than issue another statement. Our action was initiated through a resolution from the Presbytery of St. Augustine - not from any office in Louisville, but from Presbyterians who had been to the Middle East many times. In the words of one commissioner, "We were faithful at GA (not in all ways), [and] in the words of Brief Statement of Faith, 'In a broken and fearful world, the Spirit gives us courage ... to hear the voices of peoples long silenced, and to work with others for justice, freedom, and peace.' "

Presbyterians for Renewal offers critique and resources.

Presbyterians for Renewal has posted a lengthy discussion of the divestment question, largely critical of it, but listing a wide variety of resources on both sides, including statements by two evangelical pastors who favor divestment.

If you're aware of other helpful resources, articles, and such,
please send a note
and we'll add them to this list.