The Lutheran World Federation Representative in Jerusalem changes

 

After 14 years in Jerusalem as the Lutheran World Federation Representative, Rev. Mark B. Brown returned to the United States at the beginning of May 2018 and will serve there as Senior Advisor for Advocacy and Fundraising for Middle East/Jerusalem for LWF World Service starting in June 2018. Rev. Brown will be based in the Washington, D.C. area. “I carry in my heart a profound sense of gratitude for the LWF Jerusalem Program staff and volunteers and feeling of admiration for their courage, gentleness, persistence and professionalism in the face of so many obstacles and hardships.” says Rev. Brown.

 

Rev. Brown will be succeeded by Ms. Pauliina Parhiala. Ms. Parhiala, a teacher by training, has an extensive experience in advocacy, management and fundraising. She has previously worked in various leadership and management roles in Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance, the Finn Church Aid and the Crisis Management Initiative. “Providing access to services, rights and protection for vulnerable people, the LWF Jerusalem Program represents a sign of hope and expression of Christian witness in the Holy Land. It is my goal to continue the valuable work of the LWF, its supporters, volunteers and staff, in advancing everyone’s right for quality of life and fulfillment of their full human potential.” says Ms. Parhiala.

 

The Representative provides leadership, management and supervision of the LWF Program in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza and ensures achievement of LWF’s strategic goals in Jerusalem. The Lutheran World Federation has been serving the needs and upholding the rights of Palestinian refugees in East Jerusalem and West Bank for 70 years.