compassion peace and justice

Peacemaker hopes Presbyterians will open their hearts to refugees

In September of 2015, thousands of Syrian refugees found themselves stranded at a Budapest train station, making their way across Hungary toward the Austrian border. For most, the travel had been difficult as they were turned away from other countries or settled in communities that were not very welcoming.

Armenian struggles are topic of peacemaker visits this fall

For Dr. Tamar Wasoian, the historic genocide of the Armenian people between 1915 and 1918 is more than just a history lesson. Her grandparents escaped the killings of Armenian, Greek and Assyrian Christians in Asia Minor by Ottoman Turkey and relocated to Aleppo.

Remembering Elias

The people of northern Cameroon are mourning the recent passing of Elias Gondji, the architect behind a food program that has made a significant impact in communities dealing with drought and hunger issues. Gondji worked with RELUFA, a nonpartisan network of ecumenical and secular nonprofit organizations and churches.

Peacemaker to share the struggles of reaching a lasting peace in Colombia

For 160 years, the Presbyterian Church has had a presence and witness in Colombia. But that presence has never been more important than it has the past 30 years. Rev. Luis Fernando Sanmiguel has worked closely with government leaders and opposing rebel forces to bring a lasting peace to his country.

Food and health crisis worsens for people in capital of South Sudan

Deteriorating conditions in the South Sudanese capital city of Juba have left thousands of people in desperate need of food, shelter and health services. Fighting broke out between rival factions on July 8 and while a ceasefire is currently in place, the humanitarian needs have escalated.

Hunger Action Advocate encourages churches to get involved

If Jessica Fitzgerald asks your church to get involved in hunger and poverty issues in your community, be prepared to say yes. No is not an answer she will accept. Fitzgerald is the Hunger Action Advocate for the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia. It’s one of many hats she wears for the presbytery and she’s gotten quite good at it the past five years.

World Day Against Trafficking Persons is July 30

At least two and a half million people are trapped in modern-day slavery according to information released by the United Nations in 2015. One in four of those who are kidnapped, tricked or manipulated into some form of slavery such as forced labor, organ removal or prostitution is a child.