United Methodists have a choice in selecting tours to the Middle East. The United Methodist Book of Resolutions (Resolution #271, page 668) encourages United Methodists to “hear the concerns of both the Israelis and Palestinians who live there” by meeting with and talking with Palestinians as well as Israelis. This is especially important now as Israel’s Ministry of Tourism is soliciting Christians to make “solidarity visits” to Israel by sending a letter to 100,000 evangelical churches and 350,00 individuals. Tourism is economical as well as political.

Action:
Check within your Annual Conference about any tours going to the Middle East. Contact persons leading and/or participating in tours and remind them about the United Methodist Resolution encouraging dialogue with Palestinians and Israelis. Share resources with groups and individuals in your Annual Conference on travel in the Middle East. Display the brochure “When your church plans a trip to the Holy Land” in your Annual Conference Office and other strategic locations.

Also see the section on Middle East Concerns: Church tours to the Middle East.

Back to Action Alert list