In the Holy Land – The Importance of Accompaniment

It has been inspiring to meet leaders from all across North America, committed to this study tour. Being here re-emphasized the importance of accompaniment. I have been living a white middle class faith, occasionally tested but never to the point where I had to make a choice between preserving my life or taking a risk and encountering violence and perhaps death. When this study tour was arranged, there was limited peace in the Holy Land. A 2006 ceasefire assured that we would be free of violence and war, that we would be protected as we travelled. In the week before we departed Canada, that reality changed. We were no longer sure of our safety and we knew that a heightened anxiety was evident in our family. Daily we reflected on the purpose of the trip and looked to scripture to guide us. We were committed to the original purpose of the trip, my spouse and I did not waver, and we rested in that choice.

 

We knew that in making a commitment to “accompaniment” with our sisters and brothers of the Holy Land meant that we knew risks would be taken. We knew as one of our sons stated, that 150 bishops and spouses would be one big target for potential violence. We knew that suicide bombers walked in the marketplace and touched everyone in a variety of ways every day. What consistently came to mind was that a middle class North Americans we have choices to make about our own safety. That is not the case for people in the Holy Land. If I were, as a North American chose to stay home, what kind of commitment was I making to “accompaniment”? That I would accompany them as long as I was safe and secure? A commitment means we accompany under all conditions.

 

The prayers of our friends, family, colleagues in ministry, synod family were gifts that cemented our choice to come on this study tour. People praying for us and the people of the Holy Land. This was a pillar of our faith that strengthened us for the journey, lessened our anxieties and helped prepare us to “accompany” our friends here.

Thanks be to God.

Thanks

Elaine