JERUSALEM, Oct 22, 01 (CWNews.com) - The Christian leaders of Jerusalem have organized a "Solidarity Convoy" to visit Bethlehem and the surrounding Palestinian villages that have been occupied by Israeli troops.
The "Solidarity Convoy" will attempt to cross through an Israeli checkpoint on Tuesday morning, and enter Bethlehem to pray in Nativity Square and to offer condolences to families that have suffered losses during the latest round of violence. The convoy will then proceed to the neighboring village of Beit Jala.
The Solidarity Convoy, sponsored by the Patriarchs and other heads of Christian churches in Jerusalem, has several announced goals. Organizers said they hoped not only to show solidarity with the Palestinian peoples in the region, but also to press "Israelis and Palestinians to return soon to the negotiating table," and to encourage international pressure toward the same end.
Catholic World News Service - Daily News Briefs
22. oktober 2001