Churches backing Israel

A GROUP of mainly African churches that are pro-Israel and pro-Jewish organised a packed Israel advocacy meeting in Leeds to mark Lag b’Omer.

Rony Yedidia-Clein from the Israel embassy was among speakers at the Team (Together Everyone Achieves More) event.

She gave a potted history of Israel’s struggles and achievements, pointing out that it was 40 years since the then Egyptian President, Anwar Sadat, visited Israel, “the first visit by an Arab leader.

“We are also celebrating 50 years since the unification of Jerusalem, which will always remain the capital of Israel.

“This city is so important to the Jewish people. When we pray for Zion, we pray for Jerusalem.”

Lisa Baker, chair of Leeds Jewish Representative Council, told the gathering: “Events such as these are vital and your friendship and support for Israel in these times of pressure and oppression are really important.”

Other means of expressing solidarity were lobbying, visiting Israel and buying Israeli products, she said.

Team’s Jeff Riches explained: “Our aim is to build a bridge of love and trust between our two communities. There is a groundswell of goodwill towards the Jewish people.

Jewish people can remain largely unaware of it, as it is from a segment of the ‘silent majority’.”