Students of sex offender Rabbi Eliezer Berland arrived again on Thursday at Stella Maris Church in Haifa and asked to pray there. Those present expelled them, and they went on their way without a physical confrontation.
The extremist ultra-Orthodox community often harass the Knesset people. Members of the community wish to pray at the site of the ancient church, believing that it is the tomb of Elisha the prophet. The incidents sometimes escalated into violence when Rabbi Berland's staff attacked church officials.
Rabbi Berland's men came to pray at Stella Maris Church in Haifa and were expelled
Wadi' Abu Nassar, advisor to the heads of churches in Israel, said in response: "It is very regrettable that we continue to see some religious Jews who come to Stella Maris Monastery to pray in a provocative manner, probably because they are misled by a false claim about the presence of the Tomb of Elisha the Prophet inside the monastery. Although this is a small handful of people, these visits are annoying and can lead to unnecessary problems.
Fortunately, this morning there was someone who showed a group of people who came with talites the way out pleasantly and peacefully. It is important that everyone, including rabbis, refute the false claim about the Tomb of Elisha the Prophet, and that they be called upon to refrain from provocations, especially at holy sites."
Church members during a procession in Haifa, photo: Mish Dot Com
Last week, people in the church area protested against the actions of the ultra-Orthodox extremists who disturb the fabric of life there.
Juan José Bergara, General Representative of the Carmelite Order in Israel, said during the demonstration: "Dear brothers and sisters, dear friends, you come here to support our community in the face of recent incidents from Carmel and Mar Elias. Thank you for your support and prayer. This place is the "temple" of the Virgin Mary and especially for Saint Elijah. Our service at Stella Maris for centuries is for all Christians and all residents of this country."
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