I am in my early 50s, from Scotland, and a full-time CPTer. Previously I was a teacher of children with special needs. I have an adult son and daughter. I am a member of the Anglican Third Order of the Society of St Francis, but also attend Quaker meetings. I have worked with CPT since 2005.

Where have you worked?

Iraq and Palestine. I also serve on CPT’s Steering Committee (board of directors) as a representative of the Peacemaker Corps (CPT field-based members).

How did you get involved?

I first heard about CPT in 2002 when I attended a meeting about the Israel/Palestine conflict at which a CPTer spoke. Interested, I went on a delegation to Israel/Palestine in August 2003 to learn more about CPT’s work.

What attracted you?

I liked the fact that CPT worked with both Israeli and Palestinian peace groups. In Hebron I noticed that CPTers were very much part of the community in which they lived.

I trained in January 2005 and joined as a Reservist (part-timer), planning to continue teaching full time. However, after spending my six week summer break in Baghdad in 2005, I felt called by God to work full time with CPT. In July 2006 I became a full time CPTer.

Why are you doing this work?

I am seeking ways to actively bring my faith and my peace and justice work together. For me CPT does exactly that.

What does your support community think about your work?

My family and friends understand how important this work is to me. Most are very supportive, although they sometimes worry about my safety. The work would be more difficult without their support.

An inspirational story from your work:

The work is rewarding. Working with others we have helped establish a football/soccer team for the children in the Old City of Hebron, Palestine. The Old City is under full Israeli army control, and the Israeli soldiers were unhappy with where the Palestinian children were playing. However, with a little (non physical) pushing and some encouragement, a compromise was achieved that will allow the children to continue to play. It is a small achievement for Palestinians and Israelis to negotiate and agree over children playing football, but it is a small step in the right direction.

What are the most challenging things about this work?

It can be difficult to live and work in the midst of conflict and suffering. I value the time each morning that the team comes together for worship. My own faith and that of team-mates makes this work possible.