Dr Lamma Mansour offers a vital historical lens through which to understand the ongoing crisis in Palestine— beyond the headlines of October 7.
Instead Dr Mansour urges us to look back to 1948 and the Nakba, the Arabic word for “catastrophe,” which marks the mass displacement and dispossession of over 750,000 Palestinians during the establishment of the state of Israel. She explains how the Nakba is not a closed chapter in history but a living process that continues to shape the lives of Palestinians today.
From the destruction of villages like Deir Yassin and Safuriyya to the ongoing demolitions in refugee camps in Jenin and Tulkarm, the systemic removal of Palestinians from their land is a pattern that has persisted for decades. We hear stories of families who still hold the keys to homes they were forced to leave, of villages that were turned into national parks, and of legal manoeuvres like the Absentee Property Law and the Law of Return that institutionalised displacement and discrimination.
Parallels are also made between the Palestinian experience and colonial histories in places like New Zealand, referencing the peaceful resistance at Parihaka and the reoccupation efforts at Ihumātao.
The conversation touches on the international community’s response—or lack thereof—to these injustices. Despite UN resolutions affirming the right of return for Palestinian refugees, there has been little meaningful action.
Mansour highlights how Western governments often acknowledge the illegality of settlements under international law, yet fail to intervene in any substantive way. One particularly haunting story is that of the Christian village of Iqrit, whose residents were promised a temporary evacuation in 1948, only to have their village demolished on Christmas Eve in 1950. Today, only the church remains, and the descendants of Iqrit are allowed to return only in death—to be buried in the village cemetery.
This video is a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the deeper historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It challenges viewers to move beyond simplistic narratives and to confront the uncomfortable truths of colonialism, displacement, and international complicity.
For group discussion in your parish setting, we’ve created a conversation guide. Download it here.
Hear from Lamma Mansour reflecting on the Nakba—not just as a historical event in 1948, but as an ongoing experience of displacement and loss. Over 750,000 Palestinians were expelled from their homes during the war of establishment, known in Israel as the War of Independence. For Palestinians, this marked the beginning of a continuing catastrophe. As part of our commitment to truth, reconciliation, and justice, we invite you to listen deeply, reflect prayerfully, and engage respectfully.
In this first episode of our three-part series, Bishop Justin Duckworth sits down with Dr Lamma Mansour — a Palestinian Christian, academic, and social scientist from Nazareth — to explore the lived realities of a Palestinian citizen of Israel.
Dr Mansour shares her personal journey growing up in Nazareth, navigating complex layers of identity as a Palestinian, a Christian, and an Israeli citizen. She offers deep insight into the systemic inequalities faced by Palestinians, the fragmentation of identity across Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel, and the challenges of belonging in a segregated society.
Her research focuses on the experiences of Palestinian youth in higher education, where many encounter Jewish Israelis for the first time in meaningful ways — revealing stark divisions and a lack of representation.
This conversation invites us to listen to voices we seldom hear and how it might shape our understanding of the historical context of Israel and Palestine.
Christ at the Checkpoint video here
Download the discussion starter resource here
In this teaser for our second interview we hear a personal account of life after 1948 from Palestinian Israeli, Dr Lamma Mansour. After the war of 1948, her grandparents remained in Israel and were placed under military rule. Their story reflects the lived reality of many Palestinians who received citizenship but faced decades of restricted movement and military oversight.
Bishop Justin talks with Dr Salim J Munayer, who shares his personal story, theological insights, and an invitation to Christians to respond faithfully to the suffering in Gaza and the broader Israeli actions.
Rooted in the justice and compassion of Jesus, this video explores:
- The rich and diverse heritage of Palestinian Christianity
- The theological and ethical concerns surrounding Christian Zionism
- A call to active discipleship through love, justice, and reconciliation
Download questions to guide group discussion here.
Learn more about reconciliation efforts at https://musalaha.org
“The test of our Christianity is whether our enemies are blessed.”
In this second conversation, Bishop Justin speaks with Palestinian Christian Dr Salim J Munayer, whose life has been shaped by decades of reconciliation work between Palestinians and Israelis.
Download the question guide here
This video explores:
- The historical roots beyond October 7
- The realities of life in Gaza and the West Bank
- The spiritual and political implications of Western narratives
- The role of Christian Zionism and Western complicity
- A prophetic call to recognize injustice and pursue peace
As followers of Jesus, we are invited to listen deeply, lament injustice, and stand in solidarity with those who suffer.
Dr Salim J Munayer is the founder and director of Musalaha - a faith-based organisation that teaches, trains and facilitates reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians.
Bishop Justin and Dr Munayer discuss Salim's background and work in reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians.
Dr Munayer, a Palestinian Christian from Lydda, recounts his family's history and the city's destruction in 1948. He describes his journey from Orthodox Christianity to founding Musalaha, an organisation promoting reconciliation.
In this first video, Dr Munayer shares his personal story, the history of his people, and the journey of reconciliation through Musalaha, a ministry he founded to bring healing between communities in deep conflict.
Here is a link to discussion questions to support deeper engagement, whether in small groups, Sunday gatherings, or personal reflection.
Bishop Justin introduces a video series aimed at Christians concerned about the Israel-Palestine conflict, featuring a series of interviews with Palestinian Christian Salim J Munayer. Justin holds a desire for God's guidance for decision-makers and individuals and stresses the importance of listening to voices from the affected context.
The series is designed to help parishes enter meaningful conversation and prayerful reflection. It may be especially helpful for communities looking to engage with what’s happening in Palestine in a way that is grounded in faith, compassion, and solidarity.
Each Friday, starting this week, we’ll share a new video along with discussion questions to support deeper engagement, whether it’s in small groups, Sunday gatherings, or personal reflection.
Let us be open to what the Spirit might be saying through engaging with open hearts and with the courage to hear what God may be calling us to as peacemakers and followers of Christ.
Bishop Justin invites us to consider how the good things in life—career, home, success—can become misordered loves when they take precedence over our devotion to God.
Drawing parallels between the people of Israel in the Old Testament and the modern Western world, Justin explores how misplaced worship leads to personal, social, and environmental consequences.
Justin argues that giving allegiance to good things over God can lead to idolatry, even if those things are inherently positive. He calls for a right-ordered life where God is the primary allegiance, suggesting that misplaced priorities can have destructive consequences.
Bishop Justin reflects on the linear and cyclical views of history, emphasizing the Christian belief in creation, the fall, Jesus' intervention, and eschatological hope.
Bishop Justin reflects on the linear and cyclical views of history, emphasizing the Christian belief in creation, the fall, Jesus' intervention, and eschatological hope. He describes the Old Testament's narrative of the Hebrew people as an example of how complacency and idolatry lead to oppression. Then he draws parallels to post-World War II generations, suggesting that a focus on comfort and security has led to a world with more injustice.
Bishop Justin reflects on the passing of theologian Walter Brueggemann and preacher Tony Campolo, prompting a consideration of spiritual legacy.
Bishop Justin reflects on the passing of theologian Walter Brueggemann and preacher Tony Campolo, prompting a consideration of spiritual legacy.
He recalls attending a course led by Brueggemann and being profoundly impacted by his work, particularly "The Prophetic Imagination," which he considers a must-read. He also remembers Tony Campolo mentioning Brueggemann's book as essential reading.
Justin emphasizes the influence of both and their lasting impact. Reflecting on their lives of faithfulness, Justin questions whether he is living his own life in a way that will leave a positive spiritual legacy for future generations. He challenges viewers to shift their focus from personal gain to contributing to God's kingdom and loving others, echoing the examples set by Brueggemann and Campolo.
Justin's core message is how we leave a legacy of transformation and one that actively works towards the realization of God's kingdom, rather than solely pursuing self-interest.
The ultimate tribute to these influential figures, says Justin, is to dedicate oneself to a life centered on God's kingdom and its impact on generations to come, picking up one's cross, and following Christ.
Bishop Justin describes his morning prayer routine and how interruptions can provide the opportunity to hear from God.
Bishop Justin encourages us to be a dispersed people seeking the flourished of our neighbourhoods.
Bishop Justin reflects on Palm Sunday, emphasizing the paradox of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, which later led to his crucifixion. He highlights the contrast between worldly and divine kingship, noting that Jesus' coronation was his crucifixion, symbolizing self-emptying and service. He urges followers to adopt a self-emptying posture, akin to Jesus, to bring true liberation, particularly for the marginalized.
From the realities of blockade and occupation to the spiritual resilience rooted in the Kingdom of God, Dr Lamma Mansour challenges Christians to examine how theology can either uphold or undermine human dignity.
Dr Lamma Mansour offers a vital historical lens through which to understand the ongoing crisis in Palestine— beyond the headlines of October 7.
Instead Dr Mansour urges us to look back to 1948 and the Nakba, the Arabic word for “catastrophe,” which marks the mass displacement and dispossession of over 750,000 Palestinians during the establishment of the state of Israel. She explains how the Nakba is not a closed chapter in history but a living process that continues to shape the lives of Palestinians today.
From the destruction of villages like Deir Yassin and Safuriyya to the ongoing demolitions in refugee camps in Jenin and Tulkarm, the systemic removal of Palestinians from their land is a pattern that has persisted for decades. We hear stories of families who still hold the keys to homes they were forced to leave, of villages that were turned into national parks, and of legal manoeuvres like the Absentee Property Law and the Law of Return that institutionalised displacement and discrimination.
Parallels are also made between the Palestinian experience and colonial histories in places like New Zealand, referencing the peaceful resistance at Parihaka and the reoccupation efforts at Ihumātao.
The conversation touches on the international community’s response—or lack thereof—to these injustices. Despite UN resolutions affirming the right of return for Palestinian refugees, there has been little meaningful action.
Mansour highlights how Western governments often acknowledge the illegality of settlements under international law, yet fail to intervene in any substantive way. One particularly haunting story is that of the Christian village of Iqrit, whose residents were promised a temporary evacuation in 1948, only to have their village demolished on Christmas Eve in 1950. Today, only the church remains, and the descendants of Iqrit are allowed to return only in death—to be buried in the village cemetery.
This video is a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the deeper historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It challenges viewers to move beyond simplistic narratives and to confront the uncomfortable truths of colonialism, displacement, and international complicity.
For group discussion in your parish setting, we’ve created a conversation guide. Download it here.
Hear from Lamma Mansour reflecting on the Nakba—not just as a historical event in 1948, but as an ongoing experience of displacement and loss. Over 750,000 Palestinians were expelled from their homes during the war of establishment, known in Israel as the War of Independence. For Palestinians, this marked the beginning of a continuing catastrophe. As part of our commitment to truth, reconciliation, and justice, we invite you to listen deeply, reflect prayerfully, and engage respectfully.
In this first episode of our three-part series, Bishop Justin Duckworth sits down with Dr Lamma Mansour — a Palestinian Christian, academic, and social scientist from Nazareth — to explore the lived realities of a Palestinian citizen of Israel.
Dr Mansour shares her personal journey growing up in Nazareth, navigating complex layers of identity as a Palestinian, a Christian, and an Israeli citizen. She offers deep insight into the systemic inequalities faced by Palestinians, the fragmentation of identity across Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel, and the challenges of belonging in a segregated society.
Her research focuses on the experiences of Palestinian youth in higher education, where many encounter Jewish Israelis for the first time in meaningful ways — revealing stark divisions and a lack of representation.
This conversation invites us to listen to voices we seldom hear and how it might shape our understanding of the historical context of Israel and Palestine.
Christ at the Checkpoint video here
Download the discussion starter resource here
Bishop Justin talks with Dr Salim J Munayer, who shares his personal story, theological insights, and an invitation to Christians to respond faithfully to the suffering in Gaza and the broader Israeli actions.
Rooted in the justice and compassion of Jesus, this video explores:
- The rich and diverse heritage of Palestinian Christianity
- The theological and ethical concerns surrounding Christian Zionism
- A call to active discipleship through love, justice, and reconciliation
Download questions to guide group discussion here.
Learn more about reconciliation efforts at https://musalaha.org
“The test of our Christianity is whether our enemies are blessed.”
In this second conversation, Bishop Justin speaks with Palestinian Christian Dr Salim J Munayer, whose life has been shaped by decades of reconciliation work between Palestinians and Israelis.
Download the question guide here
This video explores:
- The historical roots beyond October 7
- The realities of life in Gaza and the West Bank
- The spiritual and political implications of Western narratives
- The role of Christian Zionism and Western complicity
- A prophetic call to recognize injustice and pursue peace
As followers of Jesus, we are invited to listen deeply, lament injustice, and stand in solidarity with those who suffer.
Dr Salim J Munayer is the founder and director of Musalaha - a faith-based organisation that teaches, trains and facilitates reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians.
Bishop Justin invites us to consider how the good things in life—career, home, success—can become misordered loves when they take precedence over our devotion to God.
Drawing parallels between the people of Israel in the Old Testament and the modern Western world, Justin explores how misplaced worship leads to personal, social, and environmental consequences.
Bishop Justin and Dr Munayer discuss Salim's background and work in reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians.
Dr Munayer, a Palestinian Christian from Lydda, recounts his family's history and the city's destruction in 1948. He describes his journey from Orthodox Christianity to founding Musalaha, an organisation promoting reconciliation.
In this first video, Dr Munayer shares his personal story, the history of his people, and the journey of reconciliation through Musalaha, a ministry he founded to bring healing between communities in deep conflict.
Here is a link to discussion questions to support deeper engagement, whether in small groups, Sunday gatherings, or personal reflection.
Bishop Justin introduces a video series aimed at Christians concerned about the Israel-Palestine conflict, featuring a series of interviews with Palestinian Christian Salim J Munayer. Justin holds a desire for God's guidance for decision-makers and individuals and stresses the importance of listening to voices from the affected context.
The series is designed to help parishes enter meaningful conversation and prayerful reflection. It may be especially helpful for communities looking to engage with what’s happening in Palestine in a way that is grounded in faith, compassion, and solidarity.
Each Friday, starting this week, we’ll share a new video along with discussion questions to support deeper engagement, whether it’s in small groups, Sunday gatherings, or personal reflection.
Let us be open to what the Spirit might be saying through engaging with open hearts and with the courage to hear what God may be calling us to as peacemakers and followers of Christ.
Justin argues that giving allegiance to good things over God can lead to idolatry, even if those things are inherently positive. He calls for a right-ordered life where God is the primary allegiance, suggesting that misplaced priorities can have destructive consequences.
Bishop Justin reflects on the linear and cyclical views of history, emphasizing the Christian belief in creation, the fall, Jesus' intervention, and eschatological hope.
Bishop Justin reflects on the passing of theologian Walter Brueggemann and preacher Tony Campolo, prompting a consideration of spiritual legacy.
Bishop Justin describes his morning prayer routine and how interruptions can provide the opportunity to hear from God.
Bishop Justin encourages us to be a dispersed people seeking the flourished of our neighbourhoods.
Bishop Justin reflects on Palm Sunday, emphasizing the paradox of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, which later led to his crucifixion. He highlights the contrast between worldly and divine kingship, noting that Jesus' coronation was his crucifixion, symbolizing self-emptying and service. He urges followers to adopt a self-emptying posture, akin to Jesus, to bring true liberation, particularly for the marginalized.
Rev Sue Brown reflects on the Gospel of John, chapter 12, verses 1-8, focusing on the anointing of Jesus by Mary with expensive nard. She discusses the story's sensory details, emphasizing its significance to first-century Jews. Brown connects the story to modern issues of poverty and extravagance, highlighting the tension between Jesus' teachings on caring for the poor and the extravagant act of Mary. She calls for a balance between stewardship and generosity, urging followers to be extravagant in their devotions, worship, and love, especially towards the poor and needy, and to appreciate the extravagance in God's creation.
Rev Mel McKenzie from St Anne's Northland-Wilton and Victoria University chaplaincy discusses Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, emphasizing the Father's unconditional love. She highlights the Pharisees' muttering due to Jesus' inclusive table fellowship, contrasting with their strict rituals. Jesus' story underscores the Father's constant, welcoming embrace, challenging believers to embody this love. McKenzie reflects on the emotional experience of parents sending children to university, likening it to the Father's love. She invites the audience to confront their fears, embrace spiritual parenthood, and join God in welcoming others back into His household.
Bishop Justin reflects on his recent experience of attending five funerals or tangi in a short period and the profound impact these events have had on his life. He highlights Ecclesiastes 7:2, which suggests that attending funerals can provide deep insights into life's importance. Justin discusses how these events force him to reflect on his own life and values. He encourages others to find moments for deep reflection, whether through funerals or everyday life, to understand what truly matters and to live a life aligned with their values and faith.
Jethro Day discusses Luke 13:1-9, emphasizing Jesus' message of repentance. He explains repentance as turning towards God and aligning with His agenda, essential for life and goodness. Jesus uses the metaphor of fruitful trees to illustrate spiritual growth and contrasts it with barren, prickly ones. Day suggests four practices for spiritual fertilization during Lent: fasting, prayer, generosity, and scripture reading. He highlights the importance of being relationally connected to God and living a fruitful, giving life, while acknowledging God's compassion and grace.
Bishop Justin discusses the overwhelming nature of global and local structural injustices, such as political unrest, wars, and climate change. He parallels Zacchaeus' conversion and the subsequent systemic change in his life, emphasizing the connection between personal evangelism and systemic change. He shares how Jesus addresses injustice by crossing divides to meet people.
Chris parallels Jesus' journey to Jerusalem and a well-prepared traveller at an airport. They discuss Jesus' resolute path towards Jerusalem, despite warnings from the Pharisees and Herod's threat. He highlights the complex relationships among Jesus, the Pharisees, Herod, and Pilate, emphasizing Jesus' certainty about his mission.
Bishop Justin encourages reflecting on who God is inviting to journey with deeply this year.
Rev Kath Bier explains the significance of Ash Wednesday and Lent in the Anglican tradition, likening it to training for a marathon.
Join us as we celebrate a year of growth, community, and faith with the Anglican Movement's end-of-year highlight video! This special presentation showcases the vibrant life within our diocese, capturing the spirit of our youth, whānau, and parish communities.
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, and its effects are being felt globally, from more frequent storms to devastating droughts and wildfires.
In partnership with the Red Cross, the Anglican Diocese of Wellington is actively involved in supporting refugee resettlement in New Zealand.
New Zealand is facing a housing crisis, and the Anglican Diocese of Wellington is responding. We are building new homes on parish land to address one of the most pressing issues of our time. This video showcases how partnerships between parishes and the diocese are bringing real change.
Bishop Justin discusses John 21, emphasizing the disciples' struggle to catch fish despite their skills and resources. He draws parallels to the Western Church's current challenges, suggesting that despite being gifted, resourced, and hardworking, the church is not as fruitful as it could be.
Bishop Ellie Sanderson explores the transformative role of evangelism and the concept of the "person of peace" as Jesus taught.
Bishop Justin tells us about the hedgehog concept - the idea of finding that one unique thing that you do best, and doing it.
Bishop Justin tells us about the importance of having those conversations when we confront the brutal facts of our reality.
Bishop Justin describes the Karpman triangle, which characterises our brokenness in relational disputes - and how we can flip this around to be an empowerment triangle.
Bishop Justin takes us through the "Good to Great" concept of "First Who, Then What" - asserting that it is not people who are our greatest asset, but it is the right people who are our greatest asset.
Bishop Ellie describes how Jesus led His disciples through a process of learning to be leaders.
In Good to Great, we hear about the different levels of leadership capability, and how a Level 5 leader should behave. Bishop Ellie takes us through the levels and describes what it takes to be a Level 5 leader.
Bishop Ellie talks through the temptations of Christ in the wilderness - and how in our humanness, we can lean into God's love, or we can lean into our fears.
Bishop Justin talks about the Results part of the triangle in Five Dysfunctions of a Team, and juxtaposes that against another triangle - the In, Out, Up triangle from 3dm.
Bishop Justin explains how trust is important for developing leaders and how trust depends on vulnerability, commitment and identifying and living beyond shame.
Bishop Ellie leads us through the concepts of covenant and kingdom, based on the book "Covenant and Kingdom: The DNA of the Bible" by Mike Breen.
Archdeacon Gendy Thomson leads us through a summary of "Five Dysfunctions of a Team," by Patrick Lencioni.
Archdeacon Gendy Thomson leads us through the Invitation Challenge Matrix, based on Chapter 2 of "Building a Discipling Culture," by Mike Breen and the 3dm Team.
Bishop Ellie takes us through the Kairos Circle, also called the Learning Circle, based on Chapter 6 of "Building a Discipling Culture" by Mike Breen and the 3dm team.
Bishop Justin introduces the video series that leadership huddles are using throughout the diocese, to enable consistent discussions about the leadership material we are exploring.
Bishop Justin Duckworth explores the powerful message of Matthew 28 and its call to discipleship.
Through personal experiences and biblical teachings, Bishop Anashuya Fletcher explores the importance of staying connected to Jesus, the true vine, to bear fruit in our lives and ministries.
Join Rev. Alison Robinson in a transformative presentation about embracing spiritual hunger and finding God in life's wilderness moments.
Join Anglican Movement as Nick Young shares his profound Lenten journey of self-discovery, faith, and embracing his true identity.
Join us for the final episode of our Lenten Studies series with Bishop Justin Duckworth and Jason Malcolm who share about their inspiring friendship and ministry.
Explore the rich history of Aotearoa New Zealand as it relates to our Diocese in Wellington.
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with the Benton’s and the Spence’s as they explore the profound lessons parenthood offers in understanding our relationship with God.
In this insightful video, we explore the complex relationship between the Anglican Church and Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi), spanning from the 19th century to the present day.
In this heartfelt conversation, Jordi from Whanganui shares her journey of discovering whakapapa—a concept deeply rooted in Māori culture that connects ancestry with identity and belonging.
Join Anglican Movement as we delve into the powerful and inspiring story of Émile, a survivor of persecution from Rwanda who found hope and new beginnings in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Join Anglican Movement for the 2024 Lenten Studies series as we explore our identity in Christ through the Gospel of John (Chapters 14-17).
Rev. Scottie Reeve shares personal experiences of navigating through immense suffering and finding solace in faith and God's light.
Bishop Justin emphasizes the importance of understanding the current historical context, highlighting the challenges faced in preaching the gospel in today's world. The theme of ministering from weakness is central, stressing that God's kingdom comes through dependency on Him rather than human strength. +Justin introduces and talks through the meaning in the Diocesan mission and values - represented through the picture of a tree.
In this heartfelt video, "Ana Fletcher - Ministering in Weakness," Ana shares her incredible journey of overcoming suffering and finding strength through faith.
From the realities of blockade and occupation to the spiritual resilience rooted in the Kingdom of God, Dr Lamma Mansour challenges Christians to examine how theology can either uphold or undermine human dignity.
In this moving conversation, Palestinian Christian Dr Lamma Mansour shares her experience of life in Palestine. She reflects on theology, justice, solidarity, and the role of the global Church. From the realities of blockade and occupation to the spiritual resilience rooted in the Kingdom of God, Lamma challenges Christians to examine how theology can either uphold or undermine human dignity. She calls for a faithful response that embodies mercy, justice, and reconciliation. Key themes:
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank
The impact of Christian Zionism on Palestinian communities
The role of global theology in shaping local realities
A call to solidarity and faithful witness from the Church in New Zealand
Living out the Kingdom of God in a land marked by suffering
Lamma closes with a heartfelt prayer for the Church in New Zealand, inviting us to respond with courage, wisdom, and love.
Watch Lamma’s talk at Christ at the Checkpoint • CATC2024 Day 4: A Christ-Centered Response...