Palestinian theologian to speak on faith, justice after Gaza

Below is an article in today's Grand Haven Tribune that is about an event our parish hosted.

St. John’s Episcopal Church will host a special community event featuring Dr. Daniel Bannoura, a Palestinian theologian, podcaster, and teaching scholar from the University of Notre Dame.

The event will take place Thursday, Dec. 4, from 6-8 p.m. at the church, located at 524 Washington Ave. in Grand Haven.

The evening, titled “Christian Faith After Gaza: Reckoning with Genocide,” will include a catered Mediterranean dinner, a keynote presentation by Dr. Bannoura, and a Q&A session inviting honest conversation about the role of faith in times of injustice and conflict.

As the violence in Gaza enters a new and uncertain chapter, people of faith around the world are grappling with difficult questions about moral responsibility, justice, and hope. Dr. Bannoura will draw on his experience as a Palestinian Christian theologian to explore how Western Christianity has often been used to justify political violence – and how it might instead become a force for peace and reconciliation.

“Too often, the church has been silent – or worse, complicit – when faith is used to bless empire and excuse suffering,” said the Rev. Dr. Jared Cramer, Rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church. “This event is about listening, learning, and finding a more faithful way forward together.”

All are welcome, regardless of faith background. The event is designed as both a learning opportunity and a fundraiser for humanitarian aid. All proceeds beyond event costs will go directly to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting critical humanitarian work in Gaza and across the region.

Tickets are available at three levels:

• $20 – Dinner Ticket: Covers the cost of the catered meal.

• $40 – Standard Ticket: Includes dinner and contributes to event costs.

• $60 – Supporter Ticket: Includes dinner, covers full event costs, and provides an additional donation to UNRWA.

Tickets and more information are available at sjegh.com/gaza.