YORK, Pa. — It was a busy Saturday at Union Lutheran Church in York.
Dozens of people of different faiths joined Pastor Joel Folkemer for the church’s art fundraiser for Palestine.
“You know it’s an opportunity for us to come together as an interfaith coalition, it’s an opportunity for us to celebrate that all of us in our faiths believe that god would want us to be at peace with each other, to love one another, to build each other,” said Folkemer.
Community activist Rabiya Khan says the fundraiser will provide relief aid to Palestinians impacted during the Israel Hamas war.
“I think it’s really important to make sure we remind people that these are not just numbers we’re seeing, you know, 67,000 people injured, over 35,000 dead,” Khan said.
Local artists donated more than 30 pieces of artwork for the events silent auction. People could also purchase items on the spot, including baked goods.
The money raised is expected to be donated to the Palestinian Children's Relief Fund and Augusta Victoria Hospital.
“We don’t have a goal we just know that any small amount will help,” Khan said.
“It’s been amazing to see the local artists rally together to support this,” Folkemer added.
It’s not the first time the church organized events like the one on Saturday.
“We have done many different events over the years to try to build awareness, to advocate, to raise money and we’ve worked with many amazing people to make that happen,” Folkemer said.
The church is expected to donate more than 2,000 dollars in relief aid.