For my UCC siblings who are delegates to General Synod, I would appreciate your prayerful consideration of the resolution the Southwest Conference UCC and the UCC Movement for Palestinian Solidarity are bringing to Kansas City this week. Thank you, and please share with your network. - Christopher Schouten

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Dear Conference Ministers, General Synod Delegates, and Siblings in Christ,

At this General Synod you will be asked to consider a resolution from the Southwest Conference, "Declaration for An End to Genocide in Palestine." In order to help you prepare for this important discussion and vote, we encourage you to review the resources found in the links below:

The text of the proposed resolution

Video endorsements from United Church of Christ Palestinian and Jewish partners, with bios and transcripts and summary of key points

Voices for Justice: Global Religious & Human Rights Leaders Support the UCC Palestinian Genocide Resolution (text of the video endorsements and bios of endorsers)

A one page discussion of the importance of this resolution

It is possible that by the time Synod meets a cease fire between Israel and Gaza may have been announced. However, any cease fire is only temporary pause, not a firm peace treaty, and we have seen how Israel has violated past ceasefires with devastating violence against the civilian population and the restriction of humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies. Our resolution will remain incredibly important regardless of events over the days of Synod.

In Peace.

Christopher Schouten, Proponent

Southwest Conference, UCC

Linda Noonan and Dave Grishaw-Jones, Co-Chairs

United Church of Christ Movement for Palestinian Solidarity (UCC MPS)

(formerly UCC Palestine Israel Network)