The conversation about Israel has become more complicated at home and in church since the events of 7 October 2023. This is the finding of youth work advisers at the Interchurch Knowledge Centre (IKC) and its affiliated LCJ. The organisation therefore offers handouts for educators to engage in conversation with young people.
“Young people are asking probing questions about the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the relationship of Christians to the Jewish people,” notes Marieke Griffioen, senior youth work advisor at LCJ. To help catechists, youth leaders, Sunday school teachers, pastors as well as parents in the church, the IKC offers practical and theologically based tips and tools. One of the initiatives is the podcast published Friday Love for Israel under pressure - engaging with young people in times of conflict.
In this broadcast, Bert Kalkman, IKC board chairman, talks to Rev Pieter de Boer, Israel expert Albert Groothedde, Dutch Israeli Jeannette Gabay and youth work advisor Marieke Griffioen. Together, they seek a biblical perspective on how educators can speak to young people about Israel at a time when emotions and opinions clash.
“Many young people genuinely want to understand what our connection to Israel means,” says youth work counsellor Marieke Griffioen, “and how to relate to current messaging about Israel. We find that educators need biblical interpretation, but also language to engage honestly with young people.”
The podcast Love for Israel under pressure can be viewed on the LCJ's website. There you will also find links to discussion materials for workers in the church and for parents.
