21.03.2026
Maintaining Faith in God’s Constant Love
Online Retreat with the Diocese of Jerusalem and the Middle East – 18 March 2026. Report with thanks to the Revd Ken Rue.
A group of Dublin & Glendalough clergy planned to hold a joint retreat in Jerusalem this week with colleagues in the Diocese of Jerusalem and the Middle East. Due to the current conflict in the Middle East, and in particular bombs falling in Israel, it was not safe to travel. Instead, an online two–hour retreat which focussed on Romans 8: 35–39 was organised. This was attended by twenty–eight people.
Archbishop Hosam Naoum started the meeting by reflecting on the chosen passage. He talked about the communion of suffering – when one suffers, all suffer. He also spoke about having hope, but not false hope, in suffering.
Archbishop Michael Jackson responded that in Dublin & Glendalough we have deep respect for the ways in which the Christians in the Holy Land continue in the one place and fulfil the role of living stones for all of us worldwide. He recognised that Christians there live the reality of suffering daily and said that we stand with them in the solidarity of shared prayer and Scripture.
A general discussion on the passage followed. Topics covered included the ecumenical context in the Diocese of Jerusalem and the Middle East, the importance of fellowship and praying for each other, coping with the impact of widespread violence and maintaining faith in God’s constant love for his people in times of stress. The Dublin & Glendalough clergy recognised the danger of seeing the situation in the Middle East through the lens of conflict on the island of Ireland and of offering simple solutions to complex problems.
The Revd Rob Jones introduced a reflection on Romans 8: 35–39 which he shared with the group. In it was this word of encouragement: “Christ is present…The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead is at work in your compassion, your courage, your quiet endurance….God is near.”
The link with the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem remains strong ten years after the signing of an agreement between our Dioceses. It is hoped that an opportunity to meet in person will take place early next year.