A RETIRED Methodist Minister from Middleton-in-Teesdale is drawing on years of experience to help promote peace in one of the world’s toughest conflict zones.
Revd John Howard is in the West Bank as part of an international team working with the World Council of Churches’ ecumenical accompaniment programme.
The church council’s work includes monitoring the safety of children on their way to school in conflict areas, reporting any violations of human rights, and accompanying Palestinians where they might face dangers going about their everyday business.
Mr Howard said: “I believe the work is very important, especially in a place like Palestine that is often marginalised in the media.
“There is a huge amount of violence and intimidation here. The presence of international observers, with the ability to report, reduces the violence considerably. This has been shown in many conflict areas of the world.”
Their work inevitably takes them into potential conflict situations and is not without personal risk.
He added: “It is physically and emotionally demanding work. The hours can be long and totally unpredictable.”
Last month he was threatened and verbally abused but said: “I simply accept it without any reaction to the intimidation. Every day you have no idea of what you will face.
“But the rewards are huge, especially some very special moments.
“My team arrived here a few days ago and the warmth with which we have been greeted has been wonderful – ‘welcome back, we have missed you’, cars tooting their horns in welcome and some wonderful hospitality.”
Eight years ago, Mr Howard was part of a World Council of Churches team and later he lived in Israel Palestine with his wife, Mary, while he was doing similar work.
That experience, together with a life-long interest in the Holy Land, led to the publication of his book, Hope in Israel Palestine: Stories of Hope; Prospects for Peace, last year.
In it he outlines the history of a conflict which has, so far, frustrated the efforts of international diplomacy to find a solution.
In spite of the many obstacles to be overcome, he remains optimistic. He said: “I believe that the means to peace and justice are there.
“Good people on both sides are selflessly and courageously giving their best to build a better society. Peace will come.
“One day a just resolution will be agreed. There is hope in Israel Palestine.”
Hope in Israel Palestine is published by Church in the Market Place Publications with a price of £9.95. It is also available on Kindle.
