07379
June 25, 2007

Rocking for Iraq

Topeka church’s rocking chair vigil raises funds for Iraq relief

Reprinted from Peace Notes
Presbyterian Peacemaking Program

TOPEKA, KS — It started with prayer … and has moved to rocking chairs.

From June 18-30, members of Trinity Presbyterian Church here will rock — not quite around the clock — but for twelve hours a day. Two persons will occupy comfortable rocking chairs in the church narthex for four-hour shifts. The church’s youth will participate on Saturdays, with enough chairs provided for all who want to rock.

Each shift will raise $40 to help provide children in Iraq with medical supplies, other health services and protection from violence.

Trinity church has been addressing the impact of the Iraq war on the people of that country since 2004. It began with a prayer chain. More than 60 people signed up and continue in daily prayer.

The congregation’s Peacemaking Committee formed an Iraq sub-committee and began conducting auctions to raise funds for humanitarian efforts. The Middle East Council of Churches and the Rev. Nuhad Tomeh, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s regional liaison for Iraq have helped identify ways to use the funds.