Today we worshiped with an Episcopalian community. An English and an Arabspeaking priest led the service. The scripture was taken from Matthew and focused on "the peacemakers", interestingly enough. The sermon, which we received a copy of, was on peace with justice. I don't believe in coincidence, as my Quaker friend reminds me, it is not just coincidence. (notice the name of blog. Perhaps the priest caught my blog -nahhh?)

Having communion with the congregation was special in this beautiful church, located on the ridge of one of Jordan's many hills. Afterwards, we had a wonderful brunch and a panel discussion where heard from a former member of the Senate and advisor to the King; the director of Hospitals, and a political candidate who was a specialist on the refugee problem here. Clearly they were all wanting us to hear about their perspective on the impact of the war in Iraq on their economy and social system. They feel very much alone in addressing the needs of the Iraqis whom they refer to benevalently as "guests". They don't feel they are being heard by others in the world,even isolated. They are also not very optimistic about the Peace meeting in Annapolis because they feel that the U.S inequivalically supports the Israeli position on all the major issues. They maybe right.

Tomorrow, we leave Jordan for Jerusalem. I've learned much from our hosts here. I look forward to talking with you from the old city where we will be staying. Peace, Salaam,Shalom, Bill