Campaign Sponsors' Reflections

Rev. Alison Askew - UK

Category: Campaign Sponsors' Reflections
Created: 20 July 2018

alison wsAs a Christian priest I recall that Jesus began his ministry by proclaiming good news for the poor and freedom for the oppressed. I am totally opposed to the oppression and denial of basic human rights inflicted on the Palestinians and I stand in solidarity with them in their peaceful struggle to defend their land and their freedom. The Olive Tree Campaign is an excellent practical way of doing this. I have sponsored many trees, so have members of my churches.

Olive trees on the hillside are a beautiful sight; they are a symbol of peace and an important source of income, also a reminder of the great love the Palestinians have for their land. Each tree planted gives hope to Palestinians and acts as a reminder that people all over the world stand by them in their struggle for just peace.

 

Sponsor' reflection: Yousef - the Netherlands

Category: Campaign Sponsors' Reflections
Created: 20 August 2015

yousef august2015I was in Palestine one year ago when was touched by the way Palestinians live under occupation and fight for life, and how they survive and treat their olive trees. It is not just a tree as it is to me, but a symbol of life, resistance, and hope for future.

When I heard about the campaign and specially the slogan: Keep Hope Alive, I said: "I must do that to try to Keep Hope Alive", and to me it was more than a donation. I wanted to say: "You are not walking alone even if many countries turned their back to you". I also make my donation so that Palestinian youth can see the trees grow and hit deep in the soil and keep that hope alive.

It is a great idea to know that on the other side of the world there are olive trees carrying my name and the names of many friends of mine. My dream is that I will one day come to pick olives from those trees. To me hope never dies!

 

Sponsorship story - UK

Category: Campaign Sponsors' Reflections
Created: 01 May 2013

Stephan Patrick sponsorIn 2012, St. Mary's Church at Iffley, Oxford in the UK, adopted the Olive Tree Campaign for its annual Harvest Appeal. Just under GBP 12,000 was raised, which funded 840 trees. In addition three parish members joined a group of 40 internationals for the annual Olive Planting Program in February 2013 organized by the JAI / ATG.

"We were delighted to assist with planting some 1,500 trees, over the course of four long morning sessions, for farmers whose land is threatened by encroaching settlements. We were also able to witness the occupation in the West Bank and the difficulties it imposes on so many aspects of Palestinian's lives. In sharp contrast we enjoyed the openness and friendliness of the people we met, experienced their rich culture and cuisine and learned of their long history of endurance. We really appreciated the opportunity to support them in - Keeping Hope Alive in Palestine. Do consider joining us in February 2014".

Mariam, Stephan and Jeff - St Mary’s Church at Iffley – UK

 

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