Rev. Dr. Munther Isaac, along with so many other Palestinians, has called the church to “costly solidarity,” urging us not to turn away in this time.

The notion of “solidarity” and a renewed commitment to moving with our Palestinian siblings and partners has led us to claim a new name and sharpen our resolve in this moment of mass starvation, unapologetic ethnic cleansing, occupation, apartheid, and genocide.

UCC PIN felt called to make this change given the urgency of the moment as well as our hopes for the future. We are shifting from understanding ourselves as a network to a more dynamic invitation to join and contribute to a “movement” for more mobilization, deeper connection, and bolder action. We are also shifting to more deeply centering our Palestinian siblings, not to exclude our Jewish and Israeli partners, but to join with them in working for a world in which safety is defined not by might and violence, but by mutual dignity. As Jewish writer, Peter Beinart remind us: “We have to recognize that everyone’s safety is intertwined.”

We will officially roll out our new name, United Church of Christ Movement for Palestinian Solidarity, next month. Look for our booth at General Synod where we will be showing off our new name and logo, as well as offering up-to-date resources. We are excited about this shift and look forward to sharing more in the weeks and months to come.