WCC - Communicators in the Middle East continue prophetic work amid war (Copy)
Source: Website of the World Council of Churches (WCC).
Communicators from the Middle East—some speaking through a barrage of missiles dropping, others straining to be heard over the sounds of sirens—shared updates during a meeting hosted online on 8 April by the World Council of Churches (WCC).
File Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC
Elia Nasrallah, Media and Communication Officer for the Middle East Council of Churches, emphasized the importance of standing together.
“In the Middle East, the cradle of Christianity, and the oasis of religions and civilizations, humanity is bleeding and carrying hope for better days,” said Elia. “Standing together is much needed and uniting in prayer is our ultimate sign of support.”
Elia added that choosing dialogue over hate speech is a commitment for a just future, and choosing peace over crises is a shared responsibility. “Together we build bridges in a journey of reconciliation and unity!” said Elia.
Navya Dinah Saji, Communications Coordinator for the Christian Conference of Asia, said: "Hearing firsthand from communication colleagues in regions most affected by the current conflict really brings home the uncertainty, fear, and suffering millions are facing. In these times when hope feels bleak, I am reminded of the quiet strength found in coming together, supporting each other through initiatives that work towards peace and justice, and the power of prayerful solidarity.”
“It has been extremely worrying to hear updates from our colleagues in the Middle East,” said Naveen Qayyum, Communications Coordinator for the Conference of European Churches. “As regional communicators, since we are responsible for disseminating information, it is crucial to stay connected, and convey our solidarity and prayers for peace.”
Claus Grue, Senior Communication Consultant with the World Council of Churches, said that sharing updates online on a monthly basis with communicators from different parts of the world keeps them close and well informed.
“Supporting each other as professionals, particularly in times of global unrest, is extremely important,” he said. “It helps us understand the challenges different contexts pose.”
Marianne Ejdersten, Director of Communication at the World Council of Churches, concluded: “Today we have experienced being in the midst of the war in our call; 20 missiles attacked Beirut and our colleague had to leave and take protection. A few hours later, we could continue to work on a joint statement and condemn the attack by Israel and not respecting the ceasefire.”
Marianne said: “My prayers with all communicators struggling in a polarized, fragmented and very violent world. The communicators play a key role in storytelling that focuses on igniting hope for a better world, serving as a catalyst for unity, justice, and peace, and also connecting the Geneva-based WCC office with regional ecumenical organizations, member churches, and international partners, strengthening communication, fellowship, and solidarity.”
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, regional communicators have met online monthly to strengthen their collaboration regionally and globally. In addition to sharing news and updates, some meetings include capacity-building sessions.