Worthy Christian News > Israel-Palestinian Conflict > Orthodox Jews protest Christian Feast of Tabernacles event in Jerusalem

Orthodox Jews protest Christian Feast of Tabernacles event in Jerusalem

by Karen Faulkner, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – Amid a rise in hostile acts against Christians in Jerusalem, dozens of religious Jews held a protest Tuesday outside the Pais Arena stadium where the International Christian Embassy of Jerusalem was hosting thousands of believers who flew in from all over the world to celebrate Sukkot (the annual Feast of the Tabernacles), the Times of Israel (TOI) reports. The protest occurred a day after Ultra-Orthodox Jews were recorded spitting at Christian pilgrims.

Accusing the ICEJ and its Christian guests of proselytizing, protesters held up a banner reading, “Your Intentions are exposed! Stop pretending NOW,” TOI reports. A

nother banner said Jewish people should “Stand strong as proud Jews. Faithfully for Generations!”

Inside the arena, Christians from 80 countries, including Egypt, North Korea, Iran, and Algeria – nations that are typically hostile to Israel enjoyed praise and worship, dancing and singing, and expressed their support for Israel, TOI said. No protesters entered the venue.

None of the speakers, which included a number of Israeli government ministers, gave missionary messages, and there was no evangelizing material available at the event, TOI said.

“The ICEJ has never engaged in missionary activity in Israel,” ICEJ spokesman David Parsons told The Times of Israel. “The vast majority of Israelis we encounter know this and have warmly welcomed us for Sukkot once again, especially since the Hebrew prophets foresaw long ago the presence of the nations here at this unique and joyous pilgrimage festival.”