Deep faith and lived struggle

“May our nonviolent resistance be bold. May our love be fierce. May our struggle be faithful.”

On May 12, 2025, Omar Haramy of Sabeel Jerusalem was awarded the Berrigan-McAlister Award by DePaul University’s Catholic Studies Department in Chicago. This annual award is given to a person or organization who exemplifies the practice of active Christian nonviolence.

In his acceptance speech — offered by recorded video link — Omar reflected on Palestinian liberation theology. He emphasized that this theology is rooted in deep faith in the nonviolent Christ and the lived struggle of Palestinians today. He noted that Jesus was “born under occupation, witnessed injustice, survived a massacre, preached liberation to the oppressed, challenged power, and was condemned to die by an empire that ruled much of the world.” Palestinian liberation theology asks the question, “What does it mean to follow Jesus while living under military occupation, in the very land where he once walked?”

The answer to that question, Omar insisted, is a nonviolent Christ-centered resistance to oppression, occupation and injustice. Nonviolent resistance is not only morally right, it is the most effective path to change. “It is the path that leads to lasting change without the threat of losing our soul in the process.”

Omar concluded his presentation by sharing three stories of Palestinians demonstrating and living out nonviolent resistance: a stubborn old woman, women becoming the protectors and defenders, and a friend who remembers the humanity of the oppressor.

Omar’s powerful address may be viewed here. He speaks from 38:53-59:12.