CHURCH

Israeli President reaffirms commitment to defend religious freedom

The Latin and Orthodox Patriarchs of Jerusalem attend a meeting in Haifa during which the Israeli President reaffirms his commitment to defend freedom of religion and worship in Israel.

By Fr. Paweł Rytel-Andrianik

Many members of the Christian community in Haifa have taken to the streets to protest the recent intrusions of Jewish radical groups into Christian holy places, especially the Stella Maris monastery. In the wake of these and other incidents involving violence against Christians, the President of Israel, Mr Isaac Herzog’s visit to the Carmelite Monastery of Stella Maris in Haifa was significant. The visit, which took place on August 9, was private in nature, with President Herzog accompanied by his wife and a small delegation of officials.

The Israeli President said, “We must respect the members of all religions. We have been committed to it from the beginning of our existence. Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Isaac Herzog emphasized that “in recent months, we have seen serious occurrences against Christian denominations in the Holy Land. Our brothers and sisters, Christian citizens, feel that they are under attack in their places of prayer, cemeteries, and streets. I consider this extremist phenomenon unacceptable in every respect. This phenomenon must be eradicated, and I am grateful to the police and other law enforcement agencies for taking this matter seriously.” He added, “Here, in this peaceful and beautiful community, which has hundreds of years behind it for no reason should its members feel threatened.”

The Israeli President concluded, “My message both to Christians residing in Israel and believers around the world is that Christian communities are safe, secure, and thriving in the Holy Land.” Police chief Yaakov Shabtai was also present at the meeting.

President Herzog and Cardinal-elect Pizzaballa at the meeting in Haifa

Cardinal-elect Pizzaballa's gratitude

Patriarch of Jerusalem Pierbattista Pizzaballa spoke on behalf of all Christian communities in the Holy Land. He thanked the Israeli President and members of his delegation for their support not only in words but also in deeds. “We must work together to strengthen the dialogue of solidarity and love between us,” he said. “We live in the same places, side by side, and we should live in peace, build our future together and support each other.”

President Herzog added, “Yes, it is important for all religions.” And the Patriarch concluded, “We are all children of the same God.”

Fr. Piotr Żelazko, Patriarchal Vicar for Hebrew Speaking Catholics in Israel, commented on this meeting to Vatican Radio–Vatican News. “The President’s visit signifies a commitment to addressing the challenges and concerns surrounding violence targeting Christians. By engaging with spiritual leaders and representatives of various denominations, this significant step underscores the shared dedication to nurturing an atmosphere of tolerance, dialogue, and unity,” said Fr. Żelazko, who added that “the attendance of Commissioner Yaakov Shabtai, the Head of the Israeli Police, brings a sense of hope, indicating a positive stride toward fostering a closer framework of peace, mutual understanding, and harmonious coexistence.”

“As the efforts continue towards creating a more inclusive and harmonious society,” the Patriarchal Vicar concluded,” the visit to Stella Maris Monastery stands as a symbol of collective determination to overcome adversity and forge a path towards a more compassionate and understanding future.”