Working for a Just Peace for Palestine and Israel has become a passion for Patricia Mercer.  In Episode 7 of Making Hope Visible, host Laura Hunter talks with Pat about the roots of her passion. Commitment, compassion, tears, and love come through in this tender conversation.  Pat tells of experiences from her time serving with the Ecumenical Accompaniment Program in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI – a United Church global partner) and other visits to the “Holy Land” where she witnessed thoroughly unholy situations.  

Pat’s Bio:  Patricia Mercer spent 5 months as a Human Rights Observer with the World Council of Churches EAPPI, (Ecumenical Accompaniment Program in Palestine/Israel) program. EAs offer protective presence to vulnerable communities and monitor and report human rights abuses. 

Patricia has been a supporter of Kairos Canada since 2012 when she hosted and organized the St. John’s Program for the Kairos Women of Courage tour. She attends  Gower St United Church  and is a member of the Outreach, and  Pastoral Care Comittees.  She established Palestine Solidarity, a group of people who plan and work for justice in Palestine/Israel as well as Palestine Solidarity Facebook page. She organizes the procurement and sales of Fair Trade Zatoun olive oil, za’atar, and soap as well as Medjool dates through Gower St United Church.

 Patricia is available for workshops and speaking engagements for those who would like to know more about justice issues as well as United Churches’ work in Palestine/Israel.

Remember you can always find more what’s happening with Justice, Mission, and Outreach by visiting the website, https://ucceast.ca/justice-mission-outreach-2/   and by joining the Facebook Group, Justice and Mission – UCC Atlantic.

Recorded in St. John’s Newfoundland Oct 2019.  Released May 19, 2020