This story was from yesterday's Voice of the Martyrs E-mail newsletter.


[b]MESSIANIC JEWS HARASSED IN ISRAEL[/b]

Protests Against Violation of Religious Freedom
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
By Wolfgang Polzer

ARAD (ANS) -- Messianic Jews have called for international protests against violations of religious freedom in Israel. Orthodox Jews have harassed a congregation in the desert town of Arad in Southern Israel for more than 18 months.

Messianic Jews number approximately 6,000 in Israel and at least 100,000 worldwide. They believe in the Messiah Jesus Christ. Orthodox Jews regard them as apostates.

An orthodox group called Gur Chassidim has been persecuting 30 messianic Jews in Arad. They have been insulted in public as Nazis, whores and dirty Christians. According to eyewitnesses the police have turned a blind eye or even sided with the persecutors. An assembly hall has been burnt down.

Leaders of the messianic congregation have written a letter of complaint to the police chief but received no answer. The mayor of Arad said he was dependent on the Gur Chassidim. He could not intervene unless there was bloodshed.

The Supreme Court has allowed the Gur Chassidim an annual demonstration in front of the pastor’s house with up to 100 participants.

As the authorities, the police and the judicial system seem unable to protect the messianic Jews they are calling for international solidarity. Three Christian organizations in Germany have pledged their support. Letters of complaint should be addressed to Israeli embassies.

Pray the Messianic Jews will continue to trust the love and protection of their Messiah and Savior. Pray God will strengthen them to know and demonstrate the love of their Savior toward His chosen people. Pray they will follow the Shepherd of their souls as He leads them day to day.