Tens of thousands of people from around the world came up to Jerusalem in a show of support for Israel during the Feast of Tabernacles in one of the most colorful and joyful events of the year.
It was a day with something for everyone. The main event was a march though the city center of Jerusalem. Beforehand there were activities for the whole family in Sacher Park with bouncy castles, magic shows, games for children and music concerts.
At 15:00 (3 PM) the march through the heart of Jerusalem began at Sacher Park where everyone had gathered. About 70,000 people took part in the parade, including groups from all over the world, Israeli soldiers, flag-bearers, dance groups and representatives of Israeli and foreign organizations. It was a very colorful mix with about 50 different countries represented. Local and foreign spectators along the route were thrilled especially when the flags from different countries were raised. Among the many nations represented there were people from Samoa, the Fiji Islands, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Cameroon, Greenland, Macedonia, Egypt, Gabon, Tanzania, Panama, and the Cook Islands.
Most of the visitors participating in the march were Christians, many of whom had come for the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) Tabernacles celebration. We heard proclamations like, “You are not alone. We love Israel” and many Bible verses were lifted up on banners.
Israel, you are not alone!
I was able to march along in the parade for the first time in my life. I was easily drawn into the cheerful atmosphere that prevailed from the beginning among all participants and spectators. It was exhilarating to experience the different cultures and marchers with their flags and native dress. We danced and sang and waved at the crowds with laughing. Most of the spectators along the march’s route were families who happily shouted back “Chag Sameach!” (happy holiday) and “Shalom!” Children ran around between the people and collected sweets and flags that were passed along. Spectators welcomed us warmly as we marched with handshakes and kind words of thanks for the support.
Fulfillment of prophecy.
The Bible foretold that the nations of the world would gather in Jerusalem for Sukkot.
I was really impressed by the parade and I can highly recommend it for anyone who has the chance to participate in the future. It’s an incredibly warm and cheerful event and remarkable to witness so many countries and organizations represented. I hope that I will be able to come back next year and march again in this great show of support for Israel.
Since our offices will be closed for final days of the Feast of Tabernacles, we wish all our readers a joyful season and blessed holidays!
