MembersOrthodox Christians in the Holy City

The Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated more than a month later than in the Western churches, brought a promise from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

By Israel Today Staff |
CEREMONY OF THE HOLY FIRE Orthodox Christians celebrate Easter at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Tradition says the Holy Spirit lights a flame that is passed to worshippers holding candles, symbolizing the resurrection of Jesus who is the light of the world. Photo: Hadas Parush/Flash90

“It is no secret that Christians in the Middle East are facing a growing danger,” Abbas said in his Easter message. “Protecting the Christians in Palestine and throughout the Middle East is our task and mission.”

Abbas stressed the importance of the Arab Christian community living in Jerusalem. However, in a radio message broadcast the same week, he glorified Palestinians who were killed while attacking Jews, describing them as “martyrs.”

When Palestinian Christians in Bethlehem and Jerusalem’s Old City were asked what they think of Abbas, George responded: “We Christians are the last link in the human chain of the Palestinian population. Abbas cares first about the wellbeing of his family and then other Muslims, and only last does he give any thought to us. We can only rely on Israel in an emergency and not Abbas.”

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