Church Targets Five Firms Aiding Israeli Occupation(IPS)by Emad Mekay

[laststeamtrain]

POLITICS:
Church Targets Five Firms Aiding Israeli Occupation
Emad Mekay

WASHINGTON, Aug 5 (IPS) - The U.S. branch of a global church seeking to pressure corporations whose actions support the Israeli military's occupation of Palestinian land has named five multinational corporations to be the target of its divestment efforts.

The Mission Responsibility through Investment (MRTI) Committee of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) said Friday it will begin the process of what it called ”progressive engagement” with five companies it says contribute to the ongoing violence plaguing Israel and Palestine.

The companies are Caterpillar, Citigroup, ITT Industries, Motorola and United Technologies.

”We have chosen these companies because we believe that they can make changes that will increase the possibilities for a just peace in the region,” said Carol Hylkema, chairperson of the MRTI committee. ”As shareholders of these companies, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) calls on them to act responsibly.”

The rest here:http://www.ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=29797

[MissMarple]

1. How refreshing, a Christian attitude reflecting Christian values.

I'd like to see the winger churches take a stand like that. It isn't going to solve the problem, but at least they are headed up the high road.

[laststeamtrain]

3. I understand (rather vaguely I'm afraid) that there's a major schism...

within the Presbyterian church between a winger wing and a somewhat progressive wing. I have a friend who's observant and she's a deacon and her church is very open regarding membership and the topics dealt with in adult and children's study.
If for no other reason a move like this must kinda PO the winger wing.

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

2. The Presbyterian Church

is living up to the name "Christian". Thanks.