The Gary Bergh Scholarship is intended to increase contact with and awareness of life in Palestine/Israel. “We join with Palestinian Christians as well as our Jewish and Muslim brothers and sisters in feeling a deep sense of rootedness to the land that has special meaning for our three religious traditions.” The purpose of the Gary Bergh Scholarship Fund is to further the United Methodist stance that, “We seek for all people in the region an end to military occupation, freedom from violence, and full respect for the human rights of all under international law.” 

The preceding quotes from Res.  #6073 in the 2008 Book of Resolutions are echoed in spirit by the 2016 Holy Land Tours Res. #6031, found in the 2016 Book of Resolutions. In addition, the 2021 UNY “Because We Care” petition urges all to “come and see.” 

This purpose will be advanced by a) sending young adults, (though not limited to that age group) on trips to Palestine/Israel to witness the situation there. And b) sending young adults to attend U.S. conferences related to Palestine/Israel, in which their awareness of peace and justice issues will be increased. 

After their trip or conference, scholarship recipients will be expected to make presentations to United Methodists and to other faith and community groups/Congressional offices.  This will give more people an exposure to the current situation and allow ideas and actions toward peace and justice to move forward. 

The Reverend Gary Bergh had been active in peace and justice issues for many of his 36 years in the ministry. The scholarship was created upon his death in 2007 to honor his passion for peace and justice and with the hope of sparking the next generation. 

When Gary Bergh visited Bethany in January 2006, the wall that now separates it from Jerusalem was under construction. Loui, whose family hosted Gary, explained how the wall separates the village from commerce and services, including medical. Shortly after this picture was taken, the wall was extended to where Gary and Loui were standing.  Gary hoped that young people in the UNY Conference could meet young Palestinians like Loui to break the isolation felt by the creation of the wall. The Gary Bergh Scholarship Fund will carry out the dream.

Fundraising Goal: $2,000 

Contact info:

Linda Bergh

1 Perry Rd., Apt. 221

Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Phone: (315) 492-8507

Email: lindagarybergh@gmail.com