Fall 2025 "Peace by Piece"

Destiny Magnett from Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) and Suzan Sahori from Bethlehem Fair Trade Artisans will be in the Albany area November 2 and 3. They will be presenting on topics related to peacebuilding and economic justice, with particular focus on the current tensions in Israel-Palestine. With handmade crafts available for purchase, they will also offer an opportunity to support Palestinian craftspeople while fostering dialogue about shared paths toward peace and justice in the Holy Land.

You are invited to join us at one or more of the following events:

Sunday, Nov. 2,  9:15-10:15 AM First Presbyterian Church in Albany, 362 State Street, Albany, NY (The corner of State and Willett Streets). We will meet in the Rose Room for a presentation and discussion.

Sunday, Nov. 2,  5:30 PM Delmar Reformed Church, 383 Delaware Ave. Delmar NY. All are invited to gather and contribute to an "appetizer" themed potluck at 5:30 pm, or simply join the presentation from 6:15-7:00 pm.

Monday, Nov. 3,  7-8:30 PM Niskayuna Reformed Church, 3041 Troy Schenectady Rd., Niskayuna NY. Refreshments provided.

These presentations and discussions will help us:

·        Gain deeper understanding of life in the Holy Land beyond headlines

·        Learn about the critical situation of decline facing Christian communities in Holy Land

·        Discover how supporting artisans creates sustainable livelihoods in marginalized communities

·        Support local artisans through economic empowerment and storytelling

·        Connect personal faith journeys with the pursuit of justice and reconciliation

·        Learn approaches for peacebuilding in your own context and community

Destiny and Suzan will also be at the Festival of Nations at Empire State Plaza, from 11:30am to 5pm on Sunday, Nov. 2.

About the presenters:

Destiny Magnett is the Programs and Outreach Manager at Churches for Middle East Peace where she serves as the primary liaison for church partners. She will be leading a CMEP trip to the West Bank for the Christ at the Checkpoint conference in May 2026.

Suzan Sahori is a Palestinian Christian from Bethlehem who serves as the executive director of the Bethlehem Fair Trade Artisans (BFTA).