Updates from the field

Easter Hope in Bethlehem

Standing with Vulnerable Christian Communities

April 23, 2025 | by Joshua Bellingham

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Impact spotlight: Over the Easter season, 120 families received food support, reaching 3 Christian communities in the Bethlehem area. This delivered dignity, encouragement, and a message of solidarity the vulnerable. 

This Easter season, we extended a helping hand to vulnerable Christians—offering financial assistance so they could celebrate and share together during this special time in Bethlehem, Beit Jala, and Beit Sahour. 

As the birthplace of Jesus, this region is deeply connected to the Gospels and has welcomed pilgrims for centuries. Yet today, the Christian population here is in decline, facing increasing hardship and uncertainty. 

The Challenges in the Land 

The local economy—heavily reliant on tourism—was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in ongoing financial hardship. Many families continue to struggle to recover from the crisis. 

High unemployment has left Christians under significant strain, with many unable to afford even basic necessities like food. These ongoing difficulties in accessing essential supplies are placing immense pressure on already vulnerable families. 

Bringing Hope and Dignity 

In response, we launched the "You Are the Salt of the Earth" initiative to bring hope and dignity to 120 families across the region. Each family received a food voucher worth 300 shekels, helping them place nourishing meals on their tables during the Easter season. 

Amid growing challenges under the Palestinian Authority, this support from a global family of faith is helping to strengthen the Christian presence in the region. The impact of these vouchers goes far beyond food—they are a powerful reminder to these communities that they are not forgotten. They are seen. They are valued. 

Supporting Christian Communities 

Your compassion and generosity make this work possible. Together, we are assisting vulnerable religious minority communities in direct and practical ways—offering hope, dignity, and resilience. These vital efforts are helping build greater resilience and support the preservation of Freedom of Religion and Belief throughout the region. 

Bring Hope, Dignity, and Resilience

Support the Jerusalemite Initiative

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