wfn.org | AFSC OFFERS NEW TEACHING AID ON THE ISRAELI/PALESTINIAN

[Worldwide Faith News <wfn@igc.org>]

PHILADELPHIA, PA - Reconciliation in Israel and Palestine may be one of
the most difficult problems in the world today - a conflict that has
spanned six decades and been the source of at least six regional wars
and countless acts of bloodshed.  Fourteen concerned men and women
recently traveled to the region - some highly knowledgeable, experienced
and well-read on the history of Israel and Palestine and others bringing
fresh eyes to the subject. The result is "When the Rain Returns: Toward
Justice and Reconciliation in Palestine and Israel," the new book and
study guide recently published by the American Friends Service
Committee, an international social justice organization world recognized
for its humanitarian service.

"When the Rain Returns: Toward Justice and Reconciliation in Palestine
and Israel" brings the voices of leaders from Jewish, Christian and
Muslim communities; of peace and human rights activists on both side of
the conflict; of scholars, political leaders, diplomats and military
leaders in Israel, Palestine, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. It was
written to present with integrity a number of passionate, engaged and
sometimes self-justifying narratives.

The book paints a picture of the Middle East -- as seen through the eyes
of a Quaker, a Muslim woman, a Palestinian Christian, a Welsh poet, a
scholar and more. "When the Rain Returns" was written to present with
integrity a number of passionate and engaged narratives. The book
examines the most difficult questions and the political and social
realities through the lens of the Quaker principles of equality,
justice, and nonviolence. It delves into issues such as settlements on
the West Bank, the future status of Jerusalem as an 'open city,' and the
political and economic viability of an independent Palestinian state.

In addition, the accompanying study guide offers reflection questions
and suggested activities that are intended to facilitate and stimulate
discussion of the book. Furthermore, the study guide helps make the
complex issues of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict accessible through a
15-page glossary that defines the key terms and organizations mentioned
in the book.  The study guide helps make "When the Rain Returns" an
essential classroom tool for discussing one of today's most challenging
conflicts.

The cost for the book is $15.00 AND THE STUDY GUIDE IS $5.00, plus
shipping and handling. To order, When the Rain Returns: Toward Justice
and Reconciliation in Palestine and Israel, or any of the wide range of
publications available that champion social and economic justice,
peacebuilding and more, contact the American Friends Service Committee
Literature Resources Unit at 1-888-588-2372 extension 2, or visit the
AFSC website, afsc.org/resources.

# # #

The American Friends Service Committee is a Quaker organization that
includes people of various faiths who are committed to social justice,
peace and humanitarian service. Its work is based on the belief in the
worth of every person and faith in the power of love to overcome
violence and injustice.

Contact:
Janis D. Shields
Director Media and Public Relations
American Friends Service Committee
PH:(215) 241-7060
FAX: (215)241-7275
AFTER HOURS: (302) 545-6596
EMAIL: news@asfs.org