Several weeks ago I had my first experience with tear gas here in Hebron. I realized something was up when I saw several of the other international volunteers wearing a gas mask. I said to myself, “looks like trouble.” But it also made me wonder, “why didn’t we get thatContinue Reading
Our team was almost run over yesterday, but not by a vehicle! It was a pedestrian, an angry Israeli woman bent on sending a message to those of us standing with vulnerable people–in this place mostly Palestinians. When walking on the street or sidewalk, I often yield to others. I’mContinue Reading
Tarqumiya Checkpoint. Yesterday I had a heartfelt conversation with an IDF soldier at the school checkpoint where I will be serving as “protective presence” for vulnerable children walking to and from school each day. I’m in Hebron in the West Bank to do this for 3 months. In a wayContinue Reading
I’ve been in the West Bank/Israel now for a little over two weeks. Jet lag is gone. I’ve figured out how to make Arabic coffee. I know how to get downtown, which means telling the taxi driver the name of the location for the town center. I’ve been laughed atContinue Reading
I shared with a group of seniors last Sunday about an upcoming ministry I’ll be engaging in Israel and the West Bank for 3 months. I’m leaving in 3 weeks in fact. Yikes. Much to do before then. As I was reading scripture and putting my thoughts together forContinue Reading
A Local Church Pastor
“Through personal storytelling, biblical preaching, and literally getting us out of the church and into a mosque, Andy walked alongside our church with the question, “Compelled by God’s love, what does it mean to love our Muslim neighbor?” Wise, gentle, and prophetic, Andy doesn’t just talk about peacemaking–he lives it.”Website
Lay Church Leader
“Andy spent a weekend at our church recently speaking about his bridge building relationships with Muslims. This approach resonates in contrast with so much media attention to extremists. It was a new message for a lot of our members, but they seemed willing to listen and be open because of Andy’s gentle and non-threatening presence. Now we can discuss this topic more freely and see our Muslim neighbors in a new light, building friendships as God leads.”
Professor of Reconciliation Studies
“We recognize you as an agent of change for reconciliation and an influential community leader. We’d like to invite you to influence the next generation of community leaders here at Seattle Pacific University.”
Pastor
“Andy Larsen recently gave a presentation and engaged our congregation around the question, “Who is our neighbor?” His knowledge and experience as a bridge-builder and peacemaker was evident as he encouraged us to look outside our normal circles of friendships. Andy is well-suited for this ministry as he travels effortlessly between Muslim and Christian communities and invites us to do the same.”
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