Reflections of Ruth and Ed LaMonte on their experiences with Steadfast Hope
We had the opportunity to offer 2012 Lenten programs using Steadfast Hope at two parishes in the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast: (St. Paul’s, Magnolia Springs, Alabama) and All Saints (Mobile). We offer the following observations based on these experiences:
We believe that a minimum of five sessions, each 1.5 hours long, are needed for a reasonably thorough use of Steadfast Hope.
A strong statement of interest, support, and commitment to the project by the rector helps set the tone for the sessions.
Participants appreciated brief statements by each of us outlining our personal experiences with the region and topic of Palestinian human rights.
We reviewed the history of PIN and the development of Steadfast Hope.
Regarding PIN, we called attention to the statement on the back cover: “EPF/Palestine Israel Network was created in 2010 by Episcopalians dedicated to a more robust Episcopal Church witness for justice for our Palestinian and Israeli brothers and sisters.”
Regarding Steadfast Hope, we assured them that each statement of fact is supported by official sources and/or widely accepted resources, calling attention to the “Resources for further study” on pages 46-47.
We also encouraged participants to read carefully the captions for pictures. Though in very small print, these captions often present self-contained accounts that are extremely valuable.
After the introductory sessions, we began each of the remaining four sessions with one or more chapters from the DVD. Below are the broad outlines of the sessions.
Session 1: Statement by rector
Participant introductions
Our personal statements
Comments on PIN and Steadfast Hope
Video: chapter 1
Discussion
Session 2: Video: chapter 2; pages 1-14
Session 3: Video: chapters 3, 8; pages 17-31
Session 4: Video: chapters 4, 5; pages 15-16, 32-35
Session 5: Video, chapter 9; pages 36-43
Discussion of possible next steps, including information about
Sabeel and Friends of Sabeel North America, the Kairos
document, membership in PIN, and a possible trip by
parishioners
We were prepared with questions for discussion at each of the sessions. However, participants always had topics they wished to discuss, and we always took their lead.
We will be happy to provide any other informational that might be helpful and can be reached at 205-585-7897 or by e-mail: rblamonte@aol.com (Ruth) and elamonte@bsc.edu (Ed).
