Divestment News

Methodist Church Renews Drive For Divestment From Israel

By Nathan Guttman
In The Jewish Daily Forward
January 30, 2008
http://www.forward.com/articles/12587/

Tensions are re-emerging between Jewish organizations and some mainline Protestant churches in the wake of a renewed drive for churches to divest from companies doing business with Israel.

The United Methodist Church opened discussions last Friday on a resolution calling for divestment from Caterpillar, the tractor manufacturer, because the company supplies Israel with bulldozers used in building the separation barrier and in demolishing Palestinian homes. The divestment resolution comes only months after the publication of a church-sponsored report referring to the creation of the State of Israel as the “original sin.”

Relations with the Presbyterian Church (USA) are also strained, following remarks by church officials criticizing Israel because of the Gaza closure. A recent study by an affiliate of the Presbyterian Church called on American Jews to “get a life” instead of focusing on defending Israeli policies.

“This reflects a very disturbing trend in these churches,” said Ethan Felson, assistant executive director of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. “These developments are a result of work of several very wicked forces that play in the church.”

The divestment campaign, thought by many in the Jewish community to be dormant, is still active among mainline Protestant churches and is re-emerging as a main issue on the agenda of Jewish groups. Attempts to block the divestment drive, which began four years ago, have proved only partially successful. Interreligious dialogue efforts and public pressure managed to mute some churchwide calls for divestment, but other initiatives are still gaining support.
The Methodist meeting, held on January 25 in Fort Worth, Texas, was an initial orientation meeting for delegation heads who will lead their groups at the church’s quadrennial conference in April. Delegation leaders were presented with speakers both supportive and opposed to the draft divestment resolution, which calls for removing all Methodist pension fund holdings from Caterpillar.

“The United Methodist Church holds $141 million of pension funds in companies that sustain the occupation,” said Susan Hoder, a member of the church’s Interfaith Peace Initiative. “This has to stop. We have to cut our ties to the occupation.”

Hoder, who strongly favors passage of divestment measures, went on to claim that American taxpayer dollars are used to fund Israeli military. “A lot of this money goes into the pockets of Israeli military leaders and politicians who get rich while the population of Israel suffers,” she said.

With 11 million members, The United Methodist Church is the largest mainline Protestant denomination in the U.S. The upcoming April general conference, the church’s main forum for making policy decisions, will first discuss the divestment resolution in a subcommittee. Afterward, the panel’s recommendations will be put to a general vote to make them official policy.

A spokesman for the United Methodist Church did not return calls from the Forward seeking comments on the divestment drive.

Arrangers of the pre-conference meeting last Friday in Fort Worth allowed a representative of the organized Jewish community to speak on the issue. Rabbi Gary Greenebaum, the American Jewish Committee’s director of interreligious affairs, told the Methodist delegates that the Jewish community was concerned about the resolution. “I told them that while they may think it is not anti-Israel and not anti-Jewish, for us it feels anti-Israel and feels anti-Jewish,” Greenebaum told the Forward after the meeting.

At the same time, Greenebaum warned the Jewish community against overreacting to anti-Israel sentiments in the church. Protestant churches, he said, “care very deeply about their relations with the Jewish community.”

What prompted Jewish activists to take action was not only the renewed divestment drive but also a report from the women’s division of the Methodist church, which addressed the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The 225-page report, compiled by the Rev. Stephen Goldstein, attempts to outline the historical and current contours of the conflict, but according to Felson, the report amounts to “the most egregious thing that has crossed my desk that was not put out by an overt hate group.”

Among the statements in the report that irked Jewish community activists are a reference to the founding of the State of Israel as “the original sin,” a passage calling Israeli founding father David Ben-Gurion an “extremist” and a passage defining Israeli actions as acts of “terror.” Discussing the impact of the Holocaust on Israeli society, the Methodist report claims it has been the cause for “hysteria” and “paranoiac sense” among Israelis.

“Are we not called to testify when oppressors use their identity as the oppressed with stories of sixty years ago but through some failure of perception cannot see what transpires now in the shadow of the Holocaust?” the report goes on to ask.

After letting four months pass without a formal response, last week four Jewish women’s groups sent a letter to heads of the Methodist church, calling the report “inflammatory, inaccurate, and polemical.” Hadassah and women’s groups affiliated with Conservative Judaism, Reform Judaism and United Jewish Communities signed the letter.

Another expected step by Jewish organizations is the launching of a new Web site that will call for a “return to civility” and condemn anti-Israeli voices among Protestant churches.
The Presbyterian Church, the first to come up with resolutions calling for divestment, has so far avoided taking action on this issue, but it still supports a line seen by Jewish activists as anti-Israel. In recent weeks, a heated exchange of letters took place between Jewish community leaders and heads of the Presbyterian Church, following the church’s criticism of Israel over the situation in Gaza. In a letter to the Rev. Clifton Kirkpatrick, head of the church’s general assembly, 12 Jewish organizational leaders complained that “the anti-Israel tone of your statement calls into serious question whether the season of mutual understanding we welcomed in July 2006 has yet arrived.”

Kirkpatrick responded with a letter asking the Jewish organizations, “Do you not share our concern that such regular violent responses by Israel, despite their intent to safeguard security, and no matter how carefully conducted to avoid unnecessary civilian casualties, only lead to continued violence in return?”

This exchange came shortly after a presentation of the Israel/Palestine Mission Network, a group chartered by the Presbyterian Church though not formally speaking for it. In a slideshow presentation calling for “reframing the debate,” the group argued that the “Jewish community in the Diaspora must get a life,” referring to Jewish reactions to Christian groups’ calls for changes in policy toward the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

AU REVOIR TO PARIS

The time has come to say our "good-byes" and cast our eyes on Michigan. We both remarked at lunch today that it seems we have hardley just arrived here, and now it is time to go! What an incredible experience it has been for both of us--much more than we ever thought or envisioned. John finally got to the top of the Eiffel Tower, walking up to the second stage, and then taking the lift.

We are being ushered out with a blitz of appreciation, and listening to wonderful music. This week we have had three opportunities to attend concerts by the Philippine Madrigal Singers, a world class acapella group of 24 men and women, musician alumni and students of the University of the Philippines. The first concert was in the Invalides Church of the Dome (within walking distance and where Napoleon is buried), the second venue was at the world headquarters of UNESCO, and then the final concert at our church.

Also last Sunday, our church hosted the "Distinctly Bronze" bell ringers from the U.S., a group of 32 ringers with over 100 bells...we've never heard anything quite like that!

So it's off to the airport Sunday morning, July 1, being picked up at 5:00 a.m. for our BA flight thru London, Chicago, and then to Grand Rapids.

It's been wonderful to share our experiences with you, and we appreciate the thoughts and prayers for us during these 6 months in "the city of Lights."

Returning to Michigan

July 1 marks our return to Michigan, I have many reflections and thoughts about our 6 months here......It has certainly been much more than the brief tourist trip that many folks experience, and itwas not nearly as long as a more permanent stay which involves much more adjustment. I would say that our stay here had the advantages of both.

Being here for 6 months has given us opportunities to get to know Paris, using walking trips giving historical information and details not available to the casual tourist. We became familiar with the bus, metro, and train schedules and found them such a convenient means of getting around. We found it very "freeing" not to have a car, and learned to walk more. We were able to visit favorite places more than once, and also had the opportunity for travel to London, Brugge, Cyprus, Chartres, Versailles, and Giverney

We have learned and used some basic French phrases and words, and ways of fitting in with French living, always greeting the bus driver or clerk with "bon jour" and when leaving "au revior". Our basic French/English dictionary was like a second Bible to us. We found the French people to be polite and respectful, especially when we needed help with directions, or words. They are for the most part mannerly, giving bus seats to the elderly (even me!), or for a young mother with children. Interestingly, though most people are Roman Catholic, the French are not "religious" in the sense that they worship regularly. However, at the American Church, every Sunday finds a vigorous and full group of people worshipping God!

Paris, is a city that draws in the wealthy and famous, the ex-pats, students, tourists, aspiring musicians and actors, but it is also a city where lonely students and homeless refugees find Paris to be an expensive and unfriendly place. The ACP has ministered to hundreds of these folk, and has become family for them. Now celebrating its 150th year of active ministry, the future reaches out to people of all nationalities and religious background, to find a common faith in the Triune God and expressing God's love to all.

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Will I miss the 24/7 noise??? .....motorcycles, sirens, workmen (who never seem to finish), traffic, busses, trains.....No, but it has been exciting to live in the midst of the city, where one finds people and activity in every section of Paris, day or night.

Will I miss the dog poo on the sidewalk? No...still seems incredible that so many people while walking their dogs, do not clean up after them.

Will I miss feeling like an outsider when I cannot understand people talking in the store, on the street, or on the bus.? No...but it has given me a greater empathy for those in our communities who struggle to know English.

Will I miss the lack of organization and order, and the layers of red tape that the French have? No....but I have come to appreciate a more leisurely life style.....spending hours over a cup of expresso and conversation in a cafe.

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Will I miss the American Church in Paris? Yes, and definitely so! To be a part of weekly worship where there are people from over 50 countries, and various religious backgrounds, all experiencing Christian worship, is just amazing. We have made many friends who have warmly received us, and included us in their lives.

Will I miss apartment living? Yes....although small, it has been very adequate and enjoyable to live "at the church", so convenient and be able to share in the lives of other staff members. It has made me realize how much "stuff" we can really do without. Simpler living has given me more time to read, people watch, help with the mission lunch, be a part of the French/English conversation group each Monday nite at our church, and entertain family and friends the past several months.

Will I miss the baguettes and brie? Yes, for sure....we've enjoyed expanding our waistlines a bit with the wonderful breads and pastries of our favourite patiesserie, Secco's. Walking to the fresh fruit and vegetable markets was always a favourite jaunt.

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If you had told me a year ago, that in a year's time I would be traveling thousands of miles : Australia, Italy, Russia, Finland, France, Cyprus, England, and Belgium.....I would not have believed you. God has given me (us) this incredible year to grow and be enriched by the lives and work of His people all over the world! I will never be the same.

And how will I adjust to being back in western Michigan? I honestly don't know....but I guess I'll find out soon!

Au Revior for now! Sharon

Australian Family Visit

We welcomed Leslie, Gavin, Ben and Tessa Coote early Saturday morning, June 2

After a long and tiring 24 hr trip, they were glad to get settled a bit and enjoy a light lunch here at "our" apartment.

That night the kids (and mom and dad) were glad to get to bed.......only to wake up at 4 the next morning, but slowly the jet lag evened out, although 6 a.m. wake ups were not unusual.



Gavin left for Berlin that next Monday for a week of work in Berlin, returning Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately the #2 Air France Bus stopped running at mid day, so he was delayed and had to take the RER back to our place. So much for French sporatic transporatation strikes.


The weather was generally favorable, and we hit all the major and some minor parks and playgrounds in Paris. Luxembourg, Jardin du Acclimation, Parc Villete, Champs du Mars, and Jardin de Plantes. With Tess still needing a nap, one of us alternated going with Leslie and Ben. Sandwiched in between, were several wedding appointments for John.

On Sunday afternoon, June 10, John and I treated Ben to a surprise birthday present by going to the Cirque du Solei, which was an outstanding show, and a special time with Ben.

We had to bid farewell to the family Tues. noon, when they left by the Thalys fast train

to denHaag, to visit with Aussie friends, Adrian and Mara and their girls.

The dreaded flight back from Amsterdam to Melbourne was Sunday, June 17. No fun travelling with kids, and also having to deal with a 12 hr. layover in Hong Kong. But we so appreciated their efforts to come to Paris!!

Eiffel Indoor Picnic

The umbrellas were out today, not to keep out the sun, but to deal with the ongoing rainy season in Paris! We were scheduled to have a picnic on the lawn of the Eiffel Tower today, with friends from Holland, MI: Bruce and Carla Masselink and their friends, Arnie and Hazel DeFeyter. The week previous they enjoyed a canal/bike trip in the Netherlands (with decent weather), only to put up with rain showers while in Paris!

They brought sandwiches and pastries, and we had animated conversation, especially doing the Holland crossword (who's related to who)...... They wanted to get a couple hours in the Louvre Museum yet, so on they went on bus 69, to meet up with their son Reid.

Reid and his wife, Nathalie, (French) are expecting their first child in August. Reid and Nathalie are both in the art "business" Reid is a painter, and Nathalie buys and sells paintings. We had dinner with them earlier on in our stay here.

More Michigan visitors!

On May 9, we welcomed Chic and Nancy Broersma, long time friends from seminary days. They presently live in Cadillac, MI, near their son Steve and Sally and family. Chic was able to be our guest preacher here at the American Church in Paris, so that was special for all of us.

Quite soon into their visit here, we took the train to Chartres, a delightful hour's trip from Paris by train. We had just a spectacular day, enjoying that beautiful cathedral, and then walking the historical streets along the river, and finally finding a charming place to enjoy lunch. We noted how much less expensive it was than eating in Paris cafes!

As well as the typical tourist sites here in Paris, they enjoyed strolling along the Seine, watching people on the bus, participating in our church's coffee fellowship, taking in a flea market, shopping, etc.

Chic kept daily tabs on how the Detroit Tigers were doing! We played lots of setback, with the guys having the winning record. (...this time!)

I am including some photos of flowers, which has become kind of a hobby for me....Hope you enjoy them!

John is keeping very busy with wedding matters, and will also participate in a weekend retreat at the Taize center....He preaches here June 3, and then we'll be keeping active with a visit from our Aussie family, eager to spend time with them, especially Ben (5) & Tessa! (2)! We'll be preparing for our sojourn back to the States, then on July 1.

Till later! Sharon (and John)

Fast Train to Brugge, Belgium

What a welcome change of venue to view rolling countryside, farms, small towns, and colorful fields from the window of our TVG fast train trip to Brugge. We changed trains in Brussels, and arrived in Brugge in the middle of a holiday, so it was lively and loud in the main square.

Brugge is a charming city, now with a vibrant tourist industry; filled with medieval, historical buildings and churches,quaint architechure, cobblestone streets, canals, parks, and hundreds of bicyles that can be rented. Lacemaking, chocolates, and beer are trademarks of this town! In 2002, it was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO.

Although one can walk the city, we did rent bicycles one day, and cycled to Damme, a lovely village about 4 miles from Brugge, along a canal, with a bike path on either side. Before we took this trip, we bought fresh strawberries and cheese at the open market.

We passed a windmill, and later viewed a 14th century church in Damme. I took a picture of the sign "Kerkhof" by the church, which is the "church cemetery," (and is also part of my maiden name, Van't Kerkhoff). I also found a tombstone of a couple whose name was "Timmerman", which was my mother's maiden name! Brought back a lot of memories.

I did have one fall, meeting another bicycle, and my bike tire hit the edge of the path, and down I went into a bunch of stinging nettle plants!!!! OUCH! My arm was full of the little stingers, and was very uncomfortable until the next day, when itching set in! At least I didn't fall into the canal, I thought, cheerily!

We stayed two nights at the Novatel, which was very lovely and had a scrumptious morning breakfast. On our third day, I did some shopping, and John climbed the 366 steps up the bell tower, and visited some museums.

With wonderful spring weather each day, we made our way back to the train station, and 3 hours later, we were back in Paris!