Dear Friends in Christ in Oklahoma,

I know many of us have been following with horror the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza. I write to you with a specific opportunity to provide support for the Christians there and their ministries. A trusted friend of mine who is a bishop will be able to visit the region at the end of August, and he is soliciting donations from a few dioceses to give, in person, to the three bishops who have ministries in Gaza: Archbishop Hosam of the Anglican Diocese, as well as the Greek Patriarch, and the Latin Patriarch (all of whom work closely together). These gifts will be not only of great use in their ministries of compassion towards the suffering there (of all faiths), but also a tangible sign of support from the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma and other dioceses. Because this visit is coming soon, our window for giving in this very specific way is quite short. I'm asking that those who wish to give, do so over the next week (this includes the opportunity to take a collection on Sunday, if you like).The deadline to donate is Thursday, Aug. 14th. To give please click the blue button below.

In a situation like Gaza that seems nearly hopeless, fraught with political complexities, we may be tempted to look the other way, and cross to the other side of the road. We cannot solve this, but we can reach out, in small ways, to the suffering. And we can pray:

O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us

through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole

human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which

infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us;

unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and

confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in

your good time, all nations and races may serve you in

harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ

our Lord. Amen.

Blessings,

Bishop Poulson