KC Sabeel Conference – Mission Statement

The Kansas City Sabeel Conference is an opportunity to promote a culture of peace. The conference aims to raise awareness about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and to develop partnerships to work towards a peaceful resolution founded on mutual respect and justice. We can do this by bringing together individuals, faith and secular groups to have a respectful, forthright dialog.

Conference Theme – “Ending the Silence: Voices from the Holy Land”

Background – As millions around the world protest against US policy in the Middle East, Christians in large numbers here at home are organizing in their churches and communities seeking the truth about their role in world peacemaking and basic knowledge of the Middle East, particularly of Palestine, to become more effective advocates of peace.

Sabeel (Arabic for “the way”) is a grassroots peace movement initiated by Palestinian Christians, who work side by side with Muslims, Jews and the secular community to bring awareness, dialogue and understanding to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Through educational conferences and programs, Sabeel works to build a culture of peace.

Vision – The conference is dedicated to building relationships across the U.S. and beyond toward ending the Israeli occupation of Palestine and supports a negotiated resolution on the key issues of borders, settlements, East Jerusalem and refugees. We support equal rights for all citizens of Israel/Palestine.

Conference Objectives –

§ Focus on the practice of non-violence to attain peace and justice. Foster the culture of peace through the inclusion of Muslims, Jews and Christians, and secular individuals.

§ Facilitate an inclusive dialog with young people to ensure they participate in learning and acting for peace.

§ Reflect on the impact of the Israeli occupation on the lives of Palestinians.

§ Develop ecumenical partnerships which strengthen the Christian peace and justice movement in the region.

§ Increase active involvement in Citizens for Justice in the Middle East.

Planning Committee—

Andrea Whitmore, president CJME – coordinator of speakers, topics and schedule; Jonne Long, CJME member – coordinator of finances and conference logistics; Janet Baker, chairperson JPEC – coordinator of facilities and meals; Matt Quinn, past-president CJME – coordinator of publicity; Ginger Kenney – CJME member – treasurer, registration coordinator; Jim Kenney – CJME member – fundraiser, volunteer coordinator; Barbara Leclerq – CJME member; Sr. Elaine Kelley, FOSNA administrator; Karen Turney—transportation

Print Version of Mission Statement (PDF)