P’nai Or hosts multi-media program on Jerusalem

By JEWISH REVIEW

article created on: 2010-08-01T00:00:00

The Tikkun Olam Committee of Congregation P’nai Or will present “Jerusalem, City of Nations,” a multi-media educational program, at 7 p.m., Aug. 5 at St. Mark Presbyterian Church, 9750 SW Terwilliger, Portland.

“Jerusalem, City of Nations” features four short films, a PowerPoint presentation, maps and discussion. The films were originally part of “Jerusalem Moments,” a series produced by young Israeli and Palestinian directors, created to stimulate public awareness of the ramifications of the conflict in Jerusalem.

Jerusalem is a city that draws attention from the entire world. It is a city of historic, religious and national importance to three major world religions and two political communities: Israeli and Palestinian. As such, many peoples and faiths watch Jerusalem’s evolution with interest and a deep emotional investment.

“Jerusalem, City of Nations” shows a Jerusalem that most Americans are not accustomed to seeing, providing a window into some of the complexities of the current political, social and economic situation in the city.

The tikkun olam committee decided to present the program because Jerusalem is at a critical juncture, and it will be at the heart of any future peace negotiations. Thus, ensuring that the city is positioned to reach an equitable, realistic solution may be the key to a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, said the event planners.

“Jerusalem, City of Nations” has recently been released by Ir Amim, an Israeli non-partisan, non-profit organization founded to actively engage in those issues impacting Israeli-Palestinian relations in Jerusalem and on the political future of the city.

Ir Amim defines its goal as to render Jerusalem a more viable and equitable city, while generating and promoting a politically sustainable future.

The presentation will be in St. Mark’s sanctuary. Admission is free. Parking overflow will be across the street from St. Mark at the Riverdale High School. For more information, call Hilda Welch at 503-227-4981.