“Issa Flies” is a Children’s book that follows a Palestinian Sunbird through Palestine on the day before Christmas. He sees three different children on their way to Christmas service, and because of their locations, their journeys are all very unique. Follow along this Christmas season to learn more about what Christmas is like in Christ’s birthplace. This story is perfect to read aloud to your Sunday School classes, school classrooms, or as a nighttime story at home!   

In this introductory webinar, ELCA’s Ministry with Children Program Manager Janelle Hooper, and ELCA’s Sumud: for Justice in Palestine and Israel Program Director Maddi Froiland read this book aloud and share how you can bring this important resource into your students’ lives this Christmas.

Maddi Froiland stepped into the role of Program Director for Sumud: for Justice in Palestine and Israel in November of 2024. She first encountered Palestine and Israel when she volunteered through thr ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission program in Palestine after she graduated college in 2019. While the COVID pandemic meant a rushed evacuation from the Holy Land in 2020, she was hired by the ELCA’s partner church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, in 2021. She served as Communication Officer to Bishop Azar in Jerusalem for three years before returning in August of 2024. Maddi began her Master of Theological Studies in Peace and Justice at St. Stephen’s University in September of 2024, and hopes to graduate in the spring of 2026. She is fiercely passionate about raising awareness in her the American Christian community about our shared role in disrupting injustice and speaking out against oppression in Palestine and Israel. 

Rev. Janelle Hooper is the Program Director for Curious Christian Children:  Reimagining Kids in Worship and the Program Manager for Ministry with Children for the ELCA.  Janelle also serves on the ELEA Board.