letter to the editor in reply to that of Rev. Fletcher Lowe

February 23, 2011

 

Editor, Times-Dispatch,

 

In reply to the Correspondent of the Day, February 19^th, the real reason for the drastic decline in the Christian population on the West Bank and Gaza is their disastrous condition under the Palestinian Authority who has control over the predominantly Christian areas. They have been systematically persecuted by the P.A., which has been documented and recorded. Israel has maintained open borders for Christian pilgrims, order between the opposing groups at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and security at Bethlehem for Christmas night. Only under Israeli law has the entire region been open for members of every faith. The Christian communities in Israel are growing and thriving. The Muslim population on the West Bank is likewise growing despite any encumbrances. Why not the Christian too? The security wall was erected only because of the intifadas when Palestinian suicide bombers were murdering hundreds of Israeli civilians on buses and in the streets. Until then there was open passage throughout the land and Muslim and Christian Palestinians entered Israel freely for all purposes. Restrictions were imposed in righteous self-defense. The unfortunate hardships caused by the wall and security checks, which have been lessened, are not desired by anyone. Perhaps a democratic and representative Palestinian Authority will come to respect its Christian population as Israel has, and enable Christian security, growth and prosperity.

 

Rabbi Gary S. Creditor

Richmond, Virginia

 

 

Rabbi Gary S. Creditor

Temple Beth-El

3330 Grove Avenue

Richmond, VA 23221

Phone 804-355-3564

Fax 804-257-7152

www.bethelrichmond.org