Embrace joins #FastForGaza Campaign
Christians Worldwide Called to #FastForGaza as Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
As the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza worsens, Embrace the Middle East is calling on Christians around the world to take a day to take part in a powerful act of solidarity: Fast For Gaza.
Launching on Wednesday 21 May, the campaign invites people of faith to fast for a day in any way they can, whether by abstaining from food, alcohol, social media, or other comforts, as a symbolic act of identification with those who are starving in Gaza, including both civilians and hostages.
Embrace’s local Christian partners working on the ground in Gaza say they feel isolated and abandoned: everyone knows the suffering in Gaza is off the scale; everyone is watching and can see what is happening, and we feel helpless as we watch on in horror.
This campaign is a call to action for people of faith to pray, raise their voices, and stand in solidarity with those in deepest need. Participants are encouraged to post a photo of themselves holding a sign with #FastForGaza and a personal message, to amplify the call for urgent humanitarian intervention.
Jamie Eyre, CEO of Embrace the Middle East, said:
“What is happening in Gaza is unacceptable and we must not, we cannot, sit silent. Fasting is a deeply spiritual act, and, in this moment, it becomes a prophetic one too. It says: we see you, we grieve with you, and we demand justice for you.”
The campaign comes in response to the ongoing devastation of Israel’s aid blockade and military action and Israel’s recent announcement to allow “limited food supplies” into Gaza while intensifying its military offensive, an act Embrace describes as “an insult” in the face of looming famine.
The Very Rev’d Canon Richard Sewell, Dean of St George’s College, Jerusalem has recorded a launch video which can be seen at: www.embraceme.org/fast-for-gaza along with additional updates and resources.
He said:
“Everyone knows the suffering in Gaza is off the scale. Despite what people can see clearly happening, nothing is being done to prevent it and change the situation.
“It’s time for action, not just talking and there’s no time to lose. Those in our world who have the power to stop this famine must do it now.”
Embrace the Middle East urges all who are able to join the campaign.