During the week covered by this review, we received 3 articles on the following subjects:
Anti-Missionary Activity
Messianic Congregations
Christian Organizations
Anti-Missionary Activity
HaShavua BeHolon, February 14, 2019
This article reported that “Messianic missionary materials” were distributed to pedestrians, homes, and mailboxes in the city of Bat Yam. Missionary flyers called on readers to “hear the good news of Jesus”. Volunteers from Or L’Achim have gone around to gather up the materials and to warn residents.
Messianic Congregations
Shabbat B’Shabbato, February 22, 2019
This article reported that a Messianic congregation in Ashdod named “Beit Hallel” (a name that the article implied is meant to trick Jews into attending) has been holding events in the Ashdod Municipality community center. Or L’Achim has sent a letter to the mayor of Ashdod demanding that such patronage should not continue on the part of the Municipality.
Christian Zionism
The Jerusalem Post Magazine, February 22, 2019
This article reflected on the recent death of Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein. Author Brenda Katten, former Chairwoman of World WIZO, argued that Jews should welcome support even when it comes from Christians. She recalled being invited to speak at a Bridges for Peace conference, but was then warned by a member of the Jerusalem Municipality that she should avoid the event as the goal of Bridges for Peace is to convert Jews. Katten responded that we should be welcoming of organizations that want to support and assist Israel. Katten concluded: “In paying justifiable homage to Rabbi Eckstein, we should be embracing and appreciating the strong identification of our Christian friends who support and love the Jewish people… Most of all, we admire and appreciate those whose beliefs give them the courage to be with us at times when others shy away.”