Jerusalem/West Bank

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through ELCA Global Mission has positions available in Jerusalem and the West Bank ELCA young adults, ages 21-30. Volunteers must be flexible and able to work cooperatively, in good physical health, emotionally resilient, and culturally sensitive. They must also be willing to engage in issues related to race, poverty and class, serve in diverse communities (religiously, nationally, and socio-economically), have a commitment to live simply and to learn basic communication skills in the language of the region. College degree or equivalent life experience required.

CONTEXT

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jerusalem (ELCJHL) -- working in Palestine, Jordan and Israel -- grew out of mission schools and orphanages initiated by European missions in the mid-19th century. People became interested in Lutheran teachings and eventually established congregations. Redeemer Lutheran Church, founded in 1898 in Jerusalem, became a hub of church activities, serving Arab, German, and English-speaking members.

The ELCJHL is the only Arabic-speaking Lutheran denomination in the world and the only indigenous Lutheran church in the Middle East. It has a special calling to work for reconciliation among those who have been victimized by war, to concentrate actively on peace education, and to initiate dialogue among Christians, Muslims and Jews for truth and reconciliation. It has six congregations in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Jordan. In addition, it operates four schools, educational and social ministry programs, and engages in youth and women's ministries.

WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE?

The assignments will be a combination of activities that best serve the needs within the ministries of the ELCJHL. Some of the opportunities include:

• high school English class assistant (conversation, creative writing)
• kindergarten assistant
• environmental, health, or vocation education
• art and drama
• tutoring
• sports activities
• youth groups
• instrumental and vocal music
• media and communication
• administrative support
• summer camps

WHAT IS PROVIDED?

As a Young Adult in Global Mission, you will have the opportunity to learn more about yourself, grow in faith, and increase in understanding of your place in God’s world. In addition, you will receive:

• 35-40 hours per week work assignment
• Housing (varies depending on the site – home stay, shared housing, apartments, on-campus housing, etc)
• Food (either provided with your housing arrangement or by cash allowance)
• Pocket Money
• Vacation time as determined by country program
• Orientation in the US at the start of service
• Training conferences, retreats, and seminars throughout your period of service
• Opportunities for reflection, study, prayer and community building
• Supervision and support through your placement and an in-country program coordinator
• Airfare to and from your home and Israel
• Medical Insurance
• Student loan deferment

WHAT IS MY COMMITMENT?

• Attend the Discernment Event April 16-19 2009
• One year of service (beginning in mid-August 2009)
• Raise at least $4,000 towards program and support costs (let staff know if you have questions or concerns)

Applications received by February 15, 2009, will be given first priority. Final deadline for applications is March 1, 2009.