Knesset Christian Allies Caucus Re-Launches
JERUSALEM, Israel -- Christian leaders in Jerusalem joined 25 Israeli parliamentarians from eight parties to re-launch the Knesset Christian Allies Caucus in Israel's 34th government.
The KCAC, established 11 years ago under the leadership of the late Dr. Yuri Stern, has to be "re-launched" in each new government.
Participants gave an especially warm welcome to Rabbi Benny Elon, a ninth-generation Jerusalemite who has been recovering from cancer, who served in the Knesset for many years.
World Jewish Congress Executive Director Sam Grundwerg also addressed the session, as did Juergen Buehler, executive director of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, which hosts the Feast of Tabernacles, Israel's largest tourist event, every fall.
Bridges for Peace Executive Director Rebecca Brimmer and Rev. Tom Hess, leader of the Jerusalem House of Prayer also spoke.
MK Robert Ilatov, who will serve as KCAC chairman, outlined four primary areas that need to be addressed.
Combatting the Boycott, Divest and Sanctions movement
Working against Iran's march toward a nuclear threshold state
Interacting with KCAC's 32 sister caucuses worldwide
Lobbying for recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's eternal capital
Ilatov said despite today's many challenges, "together, we will succeed in defending and blessing the State of Israel and the well-being of its people."
Former Israeli U.S. Ambassador Michael Oren, now a Knesset member, told the crowd that Jesus, his mother, and John the Baptist would all be considered Jewish settlers in Bethlehem today.
KCAC Director Josh Reinstein predicted Israel will be tested as never before in the days ahead.
