Skip to content

Israeli perspective subject of upcoming talk

Minister has personal experience in embattled country

The topic of Israel’s role in the ongoing conflict with the Palestinians will likely be debated for years to come.

But a Victoria-area group espousing traditional biblical values and teachings is hoping to build more understanding and compassion among people on both sides of the discussion.

“We’re not taking sides, but we’re against terrorism,” said Irene Bryant, a director with King Centered Perspectives. “We’re all affected by what happens in Israel.”

On Sept. 23, the group is hosting a talk by Minister David Silver, a New Zealand native who works in Israel and lectures internationally on the historical perspective behind the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He will speak about the implications, from both a legal and biblical perspective, of the so-called San Remo Agreement, which the League of Nations ratified in 1923 and gave Britain control over a swath of the Middle East.

Bryant asks that people of all faiths come to the presentation with an open mind and questions about the origins of the conflict and the history of Israel’s borders with its various Arab neighbours.

Understanding how the Israeli people see the conflict, despite the negative rhetoric that currently exists, is important to healing the situation, said Kelcy Snyckers, also with  King Centred Perspectives.

“It’s about getting back to the root of Jesus’ reconciliation and love of our enemies and ourselves,” she said.

The event takes place at the Da Vinci Centre, 195 Bay St. The lecture (7:30 p.m.) will be preceded by a meal. Tickets are $39 for the meal and talk, or $15 for the talk alone. Reservations are required by Sept. 20. Call Bryant at 250-818-9538 to reserve.

editor@oakbaynews.com