Report on Lenten Study of Steadfast Hope in the Diocese of Maine
At the suggestion of Bishop Lane, about 125 Episcopalians and others from around the Diocese met weekly during Lent to study and discuss Steadfast Hope: The Palestinian Quest for Just Peace. Originally published by the Presbyterian Church, an Episcopal version of Steadfast Hope was issued in 2011 under the auspices of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship. Regional sessions were held in Bath, Augusta, Thomaston/Rockland, Bangor/Brewer, and Blue Hill with 12 clergy and lay persons serving as facilitators. Participants gathered to watch DVD segments and to share their questions and comments each week. Evaluations gathered at the end of the series indicated that participants found the series extremely informative. While a few indicated a desire for more information from an Israeli perspective, the most frequent comments were that the sessions were “eye-opening” and could have included even more time for discussion and advocacy planning. The series concluded with the annual Good Friday Offering for the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem.
Congregations or individuals interested in planning a study course using Steadfast Hope may consult Maurine Tobin, EPF of Maine, at mmtobin38@gmail.com <mailto:mmtobin38@gmail.com> or 207 348 9976.
