October 5, 2000

The violence continues in Palestine and Israel, though not in Zababdeh itself. We have heard distressing reports from friends in Jerusalem, Nazareth, Ramallah, and Gaza. Yesterday was Elizabeth's birthday - we're debating whether her birthday this year is more memorable than mine in 1992 (I spent the night in the hospital). I'm pretty sure we'll remember this one.

Lights at a vigil for peace.

Tonight was also the weekly young adults gathering. It was meant to be a planning session for the year, when the college-age students were planning trips to some of the holy sites in and around this area. Given the dramatic change in the political climate, though, that'll have to wait. We did some Bible study before moving to the church for prayer and vigil. Peace is needed so badly here, and yet the people feel so abandoned by the rest of the world.

New friends treating us to a little improvisational Arabic music.

Seems like a good time bring out some more ‘oud music from Oct 3rd (halfway through the song he broke into English, singing about Chicago).