Date: January 11, 2026
Location: Jerusalem

In a heartfelt and inspiring ceremony, the newly consecrated bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land addressed a gathering that marked the first Sunday after Epiphany. The event highlighted the church’s mission of love, humility, and justice in a world fraught with challenges.

During his sermon, the bishop reflected on the teachings of Jesus and the call to be a voice of hope in today’s turbulent times. He quoted Romans 8:14, emphasizing that “all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God,” and encouraged the congregation to embrace their identity as bearers of God’s love.

“Today, we gather in recognition of the profound reality that our world is enduring painful trials,” he stated, acknowledging the sorrow experienced by many due to injustice and strife both locally and globally. The bishop urged the community to commit to living a life of righteousness and to extend God’s mercy, as highlighted in Micah 6:8.

The ceremony included prayers for strength and guidance, with the bishop expressing gratitude for the support of his family, the congregation, and the church. “I stand before you reliant on God’s grace, aware that I can do nothing without Him,” he said, reinforcing the need for divine guidance in the church’s mission.

The bishop called for a renewed commitment to the values of baptism and unity with Christ, stating, “It is our duty to reflect the light of Christ and to be a voice for the covenant of love and reconciliation.” He concluded by reminding attendees of their role as vessels of hope and peace, echoing the words of the prophet Isaiah regarding the coming of the Messiah.

As the service drew to a close, the congregation was encouraged to renew their commitment to faith and service in their communities, embodying the message of love and mercy that lies at the heart of their faith tradition.

The bishop’s consecration serves not only as a pivotal moment for the church but also as a reminder of the collective responsibility to share kindness and reconciliation in a world in need of healing.

Below are some photos of the event taken by Michael Younan