[News] Jerusalem Patriarchate Condemns Israeli Authorities for Restricting Christian Worship on Mount Tabor
The Patriarchate of Jerusalem has sharply criticized Israeli authorities for what it views as deliberate actions to impede the rights of Christians to practice their faith. The criticism follows a recent decision by Israeli police to ban Christian worshippers from participating in sacred services on Mount Tabor, where the Feast of the Transfiguration is celebrated. This event, which honors the transfiguration of Jesus, is a significant occasion for various Christian communities.
The Israeli police justified their decision by citing the lack of government approval and necessary licenses for the event. However, the Patriarchate has strongly condemned this reasoning, arguing that it undermines the inherent right of Christians to worship freely. The Patriarchate noted that similar restrictions were imposed last year and accused Israeli authorities of consistently portraying Christian religious ceremonies as private events requiring security measures, an approach that disregards their spiritual significance.
In a statement, the Patriarchate highlighted the broader pattern of obstruction that has affected other sacred Christian events, such as the Saturday of the Holy Light in Jerusalem. The statement urged Israeli authorities to uphold the rights of Christians to worship, access holy sites, and perform religious ceremonies without interference—rights that are guaranteed by international law.
Led by Archbishop Theophilos III, the Patriarchate challenged Israeli authorities to reconsider their stance on non-Jewish religious practices and to resist the influence of radical elements that seek to impose undue restrictions on Christian worship. For centuries, Christians have traveled to Mount Tabor to honor the transfiguration of Christ, and the recent actions by Israeli authorities have cast a shadow over this long-standing tradition.
