Faith formation and scouting programs in the Palestinian Territories are just a few ways for young people to develop a sense of identity and belonging to the land, and CNEWA has supported these programs for several years. In neighboring Israel, we have partnered with the Melkite Greek Catholic Church and the International Christian Committee to develop special youth programs to help young Christians learn their faith, build leadership skills, promote critical thinking and strengthen their bond to the land of Jesus.

Our regional director in Jerusalem, Joseph Hazboun, explained that Israel’s indigenous Christians hold Israeli passports and are ethnic Arab Palestinians — a minority within a minority — with most belonging to the Melkite Greek Catholic Church. This creates multiple challenges that need to be overcome. “CNEWA is working closely with the local church to promote identity, leadership and a sense of belonging,” he said. “This is not an easy task and will definitely require a serious collective effort over the next few years.”

You can help this work continue, and give purpose and hope to the next generation of young people living in the land we call holy.

To lend your support, call: 1-800-442-6392 (United States) or 1-866-322-4441 (Canada).