In May, I gave a paper at a conference at the University of Oujda in Morocco, on defending the human rights of Palestinian children held in Israeli detention. My presentation was based on testimonies gathered from families living near Bethlehem together with the observations and recommendations of UNICEF and Defence of Children International.

During the conference Yasmine Perni, the Italian film producer, also showed part of her documentary film about the Palestinian Christian community, The Stones Cry Out.

The visit also included opportunities to preach in the Anglican churches in Rabat and Casablanca on the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Read the text here.

It was a delight to share in the services at St John’s Church Casablanca in particular. The church family is truly international. The chaplain, Medhat Sabry celebrated 30 years ministry recently. The same week the foundation stone for the new church extension and centre was laid by Bishop David Hamid, David Harries, the British Consul, Stephanie Miley, the US Charge d’Affairs and Khaled Safieh, the Wali of Casablanca, with the blessing of King Mohamed Vl.

Morocco has one of the most enlightened approaches to religious harmony in the Middle East. The Marrakesh Declaration concludes:

“AFFIRM that it is unconscionable to employ religion for the purpose of aggressing upon the rights of religious minorities in Muslim countries.”

More photographs of Casablanca, Fez & Oujda (all taken with an iPhone 6).