The outgoing accompaniers were from the UK/Ireland, Norway, Australia, Germany, Denmark, and Switzerland. The incoming group is from UK/Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Canada. The handover liturgical ceremony, a tradition for the programme during which groups pass the light, was held at Notre Dame Chapel, Jerusalem. “Serving others is not always easy,” said Iskandar Majlaton, local coordinator of the WCC Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel. “It demands sacrifice, understanding, and the willingness to endure difficulties without expecting recognition or reward.” We cannot speak of peace without practicing peace among ourselves, he added. “We cannot advocate for human dignity while failing to respect the dignity of those with whom we live and work,” he said. “Our accompaniers come from different countries, cultures, traditions, and backgrounds. These differences should enrich our shared experience rather than divide us.” Acceptance does not mean we must always agree, Majlaton continued. “Tolerance does not require abandoning our convictions,” he said. “Rather, both demand that we respect one another, listen with openness, and recognize the dignity of every individual.” Love does not mean ignoring harmful behavior, Majlaton said. “It calls us to address difficulties with honesty, fairness, accountability, and compassion,” he said. “The light we pass today is not a symbol of personal achievement, but of humble service, shared responsibility, and hope.” | 
