The Olive Oil Ministry (OOM) is an ecumenical project of 25 congregations in the DMV that supports the Palestinian agriculture sector, promotes peace and justice, and raises awareness of the struggles in Gaza and the West Bank. The olive oil we sell is produced by the Al ‘Ard Agriproducts Company from olives grown by a consortium of farmers in the West Bank.  

Since the OOM was organized in 2010 by Westmoreland Congregational United Church of Christ in Bethesda, we have purchased Palestinian agricultural products and generated sales of more than $498,000. In 2023 we donated all our earnings for medical supplies and services in Gaza. 

Most of our olive oil and other products are produced by al-‘Ard Agriproducts Company in the West Bank city of Nablus. Many of their products qualify for organic and/or fair-trade certification. For more information, see: www.fotonna.org.  This year’s proceeds will be distributed for medical supplies in Gaza as well. 

BHPC retains no monetary benefit from these sales. All proceeds are returned to Westmoreland UCC for distribution to each year’s beneficiaries.  

Starting on 24 November, sales will be in-person in Covenant Hall after the 10:30 service. Sales will continue until all products are sold. This year we are selling three types of olive oil: olive oil soap, za’atar spice packets, and jars of olive or tomato tapenade. Contact Judy Ozone (judy.l.ozone@gmail.com) for more information.