Education, education, education…

Things are tense in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories this April 2022 because of the coincidence of Ramadan, Pesach (the Jewish Passover) and Easter. Over the past days there have been some shocking terror attacks met with overwhelming force. At a time when families of all traditions should be celebrating their faith and culture each tradition is nervous.

Today, a gunman who murdered and injured in Tel Aviv yesterday was tracked to Jaffa where in a standoff he was killed.

I have been in Jaffa all week with members of the Board of Tabeetha School, the Church of Scotland’s only educational establishment. Again and again students, teachers and staff and parents told us how much they value the unique opportunity Tabeetha provides for adults and children from all backgrounds to create ‘a safe space’ where diversity is not only tolerated but celebrated.

I’m sure I’ll write often about Tabeetha because it is going to be an important part of my life here, but for now I simply share a quote from a former student who says, ‘Education, multicultural education, is the only answer to racism. It is what eliminates gaps and inequality.’

A commitment to justice and to seeking real peace is at the heart of Tabeetha School. As students and staff learn and grow together, the Christian values of the school underpin their experience.

Injustice and intolerance and the divisions in this beautiful country cannot be ignored. While the inequality continues violence and horror will too. But there is hope. And more hope is needed. Let the children lead the way.